Hebrews 4:12 describes the Bible as being sharper than any two edged sword that can reach into the deepest parts of our being discerning the thoughts and intents of our hearts. One area of the Bible that clearly illustrates this is the section of Matthew 5 that Mr. Smith covers in this sixth sermon in his sermon on the mount series. The fifth sermon ended with Jesus telling us that our righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. How are we to do this? Matthew 5 verses 21 to 30 give us part of the answer and show how deeply the word of God must penetrate our lives going beyond our actions to our innermost thoughts.

Gary Smith

United Church of God Pastor

Gary Smith was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, but spent most of his youth in the Pasadena, California area. He graduated from Ambassador College in 1976 and he and his wife, Liz, moved to Peoria, Illinois. For the next six years he worked as a nursing home administrator in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas.
In 1982, he and Liz began to serve in the full-time ministry. Since that time, they have served in a number of congregations in the Midwest.
Gary and Liz now pastor in Houston, Texas near their two children and grandson.