Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
101 Bonus Episode: Interview with Dr. Mark Smith
In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff, joined by Dr. Mark Smith, discuss the need for biblical literacy, especially among young people. They also tackle the future of the American Church and how people can tackle biblical illiteracy through modern resources that are available.
Dr. Mark A. Smith is currently the President of Columbia International University with nearly two decades of experience as a Christian higher education administrator. Prior to his current position, Dr. Smith served as the President of Ohio Christian University for 11 years. In his time with OCU, he was able to increase the attendance of the university tenfold, from 400 students to 4,600. Dr. Smith was involved in funding over 20 million dollars for facilities at OCU. Even before the accomplishments he experienced at OCU, Dr. Mark Smith served as Dean and later Vice President for Adult and Graduate Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University.
For over 20 years, Dr. Mark Smith's mission has been to help shape students into ministers, missionaries, and ministering professionals, determined to educate people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ. He has written and published numerous articles for educational and professional development and even co-authored 2 novels so far: "Leading Change in Your World" and "The Church Leader’s MBA," a management manual for church leaders.
[00:01] We Have an Announcement!
- Kitchen Table Theology is taking a break and will be back in May!
- Introducing guest Dr. Mark Smith
[04:35] Christianity in America and How To Combat Biblical Illiteracy
- Dr. Smith gives his thoughts on the state of the American church, regarding theology and doctrine
- How can Christian educators become more biblically literate?
- Reading through the Bible within a set period of time with accountability
- https://www.shepherdsglobal.org offers free online bible study classes in 6 major languages
- https://www.ciu.edu can help you fulfill your calling to ministry!
[16:27] The Future of the American Church
- What will happen if the young people of America continue to be Biblically Illiterate?
- People will turn away from morals and values
- God and His word will still be pursuing people
[20:39] Closing Up
- To know more, visit https://www.ciu.edu
- Learn about Dr. Mark Smith by connecting with him on LinkedIn visit his website https://marksmithciu.com
Key Quotes
“We have to, with intentionality and with purposefulness, say the Word has to be taught today more than ever.” - Dr. Mark Smith
“Don't forget to tell people that great doctrine produces great lives lived out morally.” - Dr. Mark Smith
Join the Conversation
We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today’s episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!