Background

Pastor Chuck Smith — Founder of Calvary Chapel
Author, Bible Teacher (1927–2013)

Pastor Chuck Smith founded Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California, and became a leading voice in the late-1960s Jesus Movement. Known for simple, verse-by-verse teaching and a gracious, come-as-you-are ministry style, he helped pioneer contemporary worship (through Maranatha! Music) and shepherded a church-planting movement that grew into hundreds of fellowships worldwide.

A clear proponent of premillennial, Pre-Tribulation Rapture teaching, Smith emphasized living in readiness for Christ’s imminent return while keeping the gospel central. Through his pulpit ministry, the Word For Today radio/teaching outreach, conferences, and numerous books, he equipped believers to love God’s Word, share their faith, and walk in the grace of Jesus until He comes.