Meet Chris Smith | Pastor and Church Planter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Being a pastor comes with many misconceptions for those on the outside looking in. That’s unfortunately not the fault of the onlooker, but too often the fault of us, the church. Most outsiders would probably say that the church exists to look after its members, to keep them entertained, to make money and to cast judgment on anyone who thinks differently. Now, I hope that’s not everyone’s view, but it is the perspective of many and, not without merit.

Part of the reason I felt chosen for my role as a pastor and church ‘planter’, was to change that perception for the ‘outsider’. I was once an outsider and though I believed in God, I struggled to ‘believe’ in church. From my perspective and interactions with most church goers, they were a judgmental bunch, determined to point out all my faults and shortcomings. They were hypocritical from my viewpoint and, my perspective was often founded. (There are a lot of great churches out there by the way, so please don’t hear this as a chance to bash the church overall!)

So, back to the initial question, what’s one thing about my industry that outsiders probably aren’t aware of? I’d say the most profound truth about the church, is that it exists primarily for it’s non members, outsiders. It’s not meant to be just for those who attend or give money, but to work together as a ‘church’ and make a difference beyond our walls and meetings.

When someone in the community, an ‘outsider’ is in need, the church is supposed to be one of the first places they look for help.

When outsiders are facing tragedy or grief, the church is meant to bring hope, peace and grace.

When an ‘outsider’ picks up the phone and calls me, my job isn’t to tell them they have to be a member, but to ask them how can we help, how can we serve, how can we pray?

There’s a whole lot of minds to change with this reality, but that’s part of my privilege in starting a new church. Not that what I’m saying is new, but truly living for all that Jesus intended often goes unseen, leaving the outsider to assume something far different about why the church exists. Not seeker sensitive or bait and switch, but truly a humble people, waiting to help and serve our community in a lasting way.

To the ‘outsiders’, we’re here to serve you…and you are welcome inside!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have the privilege of being a pastor, investing in people’s lives and helping many through their most difficult struggles and greatest successes. I’ve never really thought of what I do as a career, but more of a calling, something God created me to do. So, it’s never been about me or my ‘success’, but about the lives entrusted to me and difference I get to make. I truly love what I do! It’s not easy, won’t make you rich in ‘stuff’, but there is no greater privilege than to do what I get to do.
The challenges of ministry are constant, as you’re dealing with people and their lives, decisions (good and bad) and the fact that much of who I am and what I lead people in, is so often counter culture. For me, I have to remain steadfast in what I believe, while finding ways to reach and impact an ever changing society. Making sure people understand what we stand for, rather than battling constantly over what we stand against is tough as well, with so many preconceived ideas of what the church is about. But, again, I love what I do and that fact gives me the grace to overcome those challenges.
Lessons are constant in ministry, both for those I lead and, if I’m smart, for me as well. If we stop learning we’re in a dangerous place, often arriving at a point of pridefulness that can end up in a disastrous way. Humility is key in any leadership role, as we hear others more clearly, make decisions for the benefit of all involved and remain open to personal growth. Listen more than you talk, be patient with people so you can learn where they’re coming from and be quick to forgive, no matter how offended you want to be.
What I want the world to know is really not about me or even the church I lead, but about a God that loves each and every one of them. I want people to understand they were created with love and forethought, no one an accident. That there is great purpose in this life for the next and the difference we can make on those around us for the good is immeasurable. I want the world to know about Jesus, His love, His sacrifice, His grace and His desire to reach everyone…everyone!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Where we live has some of the most amazing natural beauty. First, as we’re big on real relationship, we’d start with a home cooked meal that my amazing wife has prepared. She’s Italian, so they’d eat until they couldn’t eat anymore. Then we’d sit around and laugh, tell stories and catch up on life.

That next morning would have to start with a great cup of coffee from Lost Coffee in Highlands Ranch, along with a locally made breakfast burrito. From there, head down the Garden of the Gods to explore, hike and enjoy the wonder of that natural preserve. They’ve also got some pretty nice spots to grab another Espresso and lunch, as we sit and look out over it all. Then, hike back and head homeward, with a stop at Los Dos Portrillos Mexican food. Being originally from Southern California, we love good Mexican food and this is the closest we’ve found near us. Tortillas being made fresh on site, great Fajitas, chips and salsa, along with fresh guacamole!! Can’t go wrong.

Next day would be to visit other friends in ministry nearby, to catch up, grab food…and more great coffee! Probably up in the Broomfield area, picking up a Latte at Ziggis coffee and some great BBQ at GQue BBQ off 120th. Ribs, Brisket, home cut fries, mac and cheese…I’m already drooling! And after we have a run over to the Outlets at the Orchard, we have to treat them to an old favorite, In and Out Burger for Double Doubles Animal Style, fries and a Neapolitan shake to finish it off. After that, feeling quite full, fat and happy, time to head home to sit around and chat a bit more before bed.

We also like to get in regular workouts, so either a solid workout at our home gym or head over to the local fitness center to burn off all that food we’ve talked about…and the food yet to be eaten. My son plays D1 football at CSU, so we’d definitely get them up to a game in Fort Collins, which is an all day affair. On the drive up, we’d have to stop at Buccees for a Brisket sandwich, Ice Coffee and freshly roasted Pecans!! Then, once we get parked at CSU, enjoy walking around and taking in the tailgating. Lots of foods to sample and enjoy before the game. After cheering and shouting for 4 hours, being able to grab our son and go out for a meal with friends is a great treat, which will often end up at a BJ’s Pizza.

Then, on the Sunday morning, a nice homemade breakfast, fresh Latte and off to church for celebration and fellowship. Great way to end/start the week and give our friends a taste of what God is doing in our region.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s quite a few that have invested in me and still stand with me today, to make sure we’re doing well. An organization called NCMI (New Covenant Ministries International, ncmi.net) still partners with us everyday, to continue to encourage, support and guide us as we plant this church. Friends such as Tyrone Daniel, leader of NCMI and Terry Krueger, leader of Redemption City Church in Westminster, CO. Also, and incredibly important, my wife, Cheryl Smith has been at my side for almost 31 years! But most of all, Jesus, for saving and using such an unworthy and unlikely guy like me, to touch and impact so many lives. I’m forever grateful to Him.

Website: https://equippedchurch.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equipped4ministry/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equipped-church-co/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EquippedChurch

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/equippedchurchco

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/equipped-church-highlands-ranch

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@equippedchurch