The Church

With Pentecost being a single day in contrast to the other holy day periods covering several day periods, we might ask is this holy day as important as the others? In this sermon Mr. Smith reminds us of the dramatic events relating to Pentecost recorded in exodus 20 and Acts 2 relating to the Law and God's spirit. In Acts 2 the Holy Spirit was combined with the law to form the church. And the church is a vital part of God's plan because it brings fourth the firstfruits who will have important roles in God's coming kingdom.

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.
Apart from pastoring, Gary enjoys hiking, playing and watching sports, reading and spending time with family.