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Chuck Smith

Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching
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Sermon Summary
Chuck Smith emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the return of Jesus, reminding believers that His coming is imminent and will mark the end of earthly life and opportunities. He poses a critical question: when Jesus returns, will He find faith on the earth? Smith challenges the congregation to reflect on their faith and actions, highlighting that true faith is evidenced by works, as illustrated in James 2:14-20. He stresses that while salvation is not earned by works, genuine belief should naturally lead to active service for God.
Scriptures
Luke 18:8
I. "WHEN THE SON OF MAN RETURNS." A. "Watch ye therefore and be ye ready." 1. Jesus coming again. 2. His coming is soon. 3. His coming will bring to an end. a. Our earthly buildings. b. Our opportunities. II. WILL HE FIND FAITH ON THE EARTH? A. "I believe on Him." "I'm a Christian." B. James 2:14-20. C. Will He find anybody working for Him? D. James is not saying saved by works. 1. Works must follow faith. 2. See clouds expect to see rain. "You don't exclaim over rain." "Aren't they workers?" No, believers. 3. "If you believed you would be out doing the same thing."
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Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching