77: Preaching & Teaching with Bryant Wright

In this special episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay sits down with Johnson Ferry’s founding pastor, Bryant Wright, for a conversation about the art, calling, and responsibility of preaching God’s Word. Drawing from nearly 50 years of ministry and thousands of sermons, Bryant reflects on his earliest experiences teaching the Bible, the pastors and mentors who shaped him, and the lessons he has learned through decades in the pulpit.

Clay and Bryant also pull back the curtain on what sermon preparation actually looks like—from selecting and studying a text to planning months ahead, protecting preparation time, and spending 15–20 hours developing a message. They discuss the importance of prayer, staying dependent on the Holy Spirit, preaching the whole counsel of Scripture, and keeping Christ and the gospel at the center of every sermon. Whether you preach, teach, lead a Bible study, or simply want to better understand the work that happens before Sunday morning, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement for faithfully communicating God’s Word.

Dr. Clay Smith is the senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, located just north of Atlanta, GA. JF, as it is affectionately called, is a healthy, vibrant church committed to helping people find truth, belonging, and purpose in Jesus.

Learn more about Johnson Ferry Baptist Church at johnsonferry.org