About

Douglas Kent Smith, Jr., PhD

I am an independent Bible scholar, educator, and musician who loves helping people grow in their study of Scripture and music. I am from the Appalachian region of Northeast Tennessee/Southwest Virginia (and wrote a song about Bristol, TN/VA). I confess Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and am a member of a Fellowship Chapel Church. I am married to Krystal, and we have five children. I received a B.A. in History from King College (now King University), a Master of Church Music from Pensacola Theological Seminary, M.T.S., M.Div., and Th.M. degrees from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Columbia International University. 

My scholarly interests lie in Genesis 1–11, Hebrew narrative and poetry, Biblical Hebrew pedagogy, Septuagint studies, and the linguistic sub-discipline of discourse analysis. Further information on my training and academic work may be viewed here. I love encouraging people in studying the biblical languages as well as helping people of all ages to understand the Bible and its teachings.

As for music, I began learning guitar at age 17, received training in shape note singing schools as well as in a church music program, and have at times performed with a band with folk/bluegrass instruments. I've also enjoyed exploring amplification and effects for acoustic and electric guitar and enjoy finding ways to enhance tasteful, creative, ambient playing. I currently serve as a musician in the worship ministry of my home church, usually playing guitar but sometimes dobro or banjo (alongside my wife, who is a stellar pianist).

I have over 30 years of teaching in various contexts with a variety of ages, from church ministry in Sunday school and Bible school, to full-time work in Christian schools, to preaching and training preachers and teachers, to teaching music and guitar, to adjunct teaching and mentoring in higher education (undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels).

My Mission

To make disciples of Christ through teaching, mentoring, research, writing, music, and preaching—as a confessional scholar and lifelong learner.

How May I Help You?

Please contact me if I might be of help to you, or your church, school, or organization through teaching, speaking, or conducting training.