James Bryan Smith

James Bryan Smith is a theology professor specializing in Christian spiritual formation at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. He holds degrees from Yale Divinity School and Fuller Theological Seminary and has taught at Friends University for over three decades. An ordained United Methodist minister, Smith has served as a pastor and co-founded Chapel Hill United Methodist Church. His written works include "A Spiritual Formation Workbook," "Devotional Classics" (co-authored with Richard Foster), and "The Good and Beautiful God," part of his acclaimed "Apprentice Series." He is also the author of biographies such as "Rich Mullins: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven" and the memoir "Room of Marvels."

A founding member of Renovaré alongside Richard J. Foster and Dallas Willard, Smith has played a significant role in spiritual renewal ministries. He serves as the Executive Director of The Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation and hosts the "Things Above Podcast." His writings emphasize transformative discipleship, blending theological depth with practical application. Recognized as the Dallas Willard Professor of Christian Spiritual Formation, Smith continues to influence both academic and church communities through his teaching, preaching, and published works.