In this episode of WordSmith, Pastor Clay Smith welcomes first-time guest and Johnson Ferry elder, Bryan Tyson, as they wrap up a year-long journey through the Book of Romans with a final look at Romans 16. Clay and Bryan explore Paul’s deeply personal closing—his long list of greetings, faithful friends, and ministry partners—and what it reveals about the relational heart behind rich theology.

Together they discuss the prominent role of women like Phoebe and Priscilla, how Scripture shapes our understanding of roles and service in the local church, and why “ordinary” believers whose names few remember still have an eternal impact. They also unpack Paul’s strong warning against false teaching and division, the difference between gospel freedom and rule-keeping religion, and how spiritual disciplines function as responses to grace rather than ways to earn God’s favor.

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