In this Bible Study Mr. Smith asks is God still doing a work in the church today? When we look back at the church 50 years ago we see a larger church and a more visible work. But we need to understand God is striving for quality not quantity. Many who were in the church then have not remained with us. In this sermon Mr. Smith looks at three areas that show us how God describes the work he is carrying out in the church. Two parables, the mustard seed and the leaven hidden in a loaf of bread, show that the work of God through the church will not be visibly seen until it nears its end. And we can see this also when we consider the holy days. We are now in the phase of God's work pictured by Pentecost. This continues all the way up to the return of Christ,yet the harvest of this holy day are referred to as "first fruits" showing the far greater part of God's work will not come until after Christ's return at the fulfillment of the feast of trumpets. God is still doing his work and we need to remain faithful to have a part in the great work that comes AFTER the return of jesus.

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.