The Doctrine of Becoming Like Christ draws from Epistle of James chapter 3 to confront the power of our words as a true measure of spiritual transformation. This message explores how the tongue, though small, can either ignite destruction or become an instrument of Christlike love within the Church. Listeners are challenged to move beyond passive faith and intentionally use their speech to build others up, reflect the heart of Jesus Christ, and create a culture of belonging marked by love. Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith Donelson First Belonging Part 14: Love April 19, 2026

This week's message explores the kind of deep, enduring hope described in James 5- a hope that does not remove waiting but transforms it. In seasons of suffering, uncertainty, and delay, you are reminded that true hope is rooted in confidence in Christ, not in quick answers or easy outcomes. Like a farmer trusting the unseen growth beneath the soil, you learn to trust God's timing even when nothing seems to be changing. Because your belonging is in Christ, you can stand firm with steady hope, knowing He is near and faithful to fulfill His promises. "Real hope is built on the nearness, presence, and certainty of Jesus Christ." Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith Donelson First Belonging Part 13: Hope April 12, 2026

In our formation journey through the letter of James, Pastor Jeffrey challenges us to examine whether our faith is truly alive - because real faith doesn't stay still, it serves. When we understand our belonging in Christ, serving shifts from obligation to a natural response of a transformed heart.

In part 9 of our series through James Pastor Jeffrey teaches on perseverance leading to maturity. In James 1:2-4 we learn that trials strengthen faith and produce Christlike character.

"God is not merely trying to help you survive your trials. God is forming you through them!"

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Belonging Part 9: Grow

March 15, 2026

In part 8 of our series through James Pastor Jeffrey teaches on prayer. Our attitude surrounding prayer directly correlates to our true dependance on God.

"Prayer is belonging lived out loud."

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Belonging Part 8: Pray

March 8, 2026

In Part 7 of our series through James Pastor Jeffrey echos the call of James to put aside favoritism and prejudice. To take up the call of God to show mercy.

"Unforgiveness does not imprison the offender. It imprisons the soul."

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Belonging Part 7: Forgive

March 1, 2026

In Part 6 of our series through James Pastor Jeffrey challenges us as believers to answer the call of God to give. Give of our time, attention, finances, whatever God is impressing on each of our hearts, as an outward sign of an inward transformation.

"If your treasure never moves toward the mission of God, your heart will slowly drift from the mission of God."

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Belonging Part 6: Give

February 22, 2026

Pastor Jeffrey continues our series through James with part 5: Decide. He lays out the necessity of deciding to obey, and how that is the true way to live freely.

"Belonging is not formed by intention. It is formed by obedience."

Pastor Jeffrey Dean Smith

Donelson First

Belonging Part 5: Decide

February 15th, 2026