In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Efrem Smith joins The Proximity Podcast to explore the vital intersection of faith, race, and identity. Growing up in Minneapolis, Pastor Efrem’s story weaves through the complexities of belonging, the beauty of diversity, and the deep wounds of division that shape both the church and the city he calls home. As a pastor, author, and national voice for reconciliation and the multiethnic church, Dr. Smith brings an unfiltered honesty to what it means to follow Jesus in an era defined by polarization and pain.
Pastor Efrem’s perspective on identity is both deeply personal and profoundly theological. He reminds us that identity in Christ does not erase ethnicity—it redeems it. Through stories of his own formation in North Minneapolis and his leadership in multiethnic ministry, he challenges listeners to see how the church can embody the Kingdom of God as a reconciling community that celebrates difference rather than fears it. This episode dismantles the false narrative that unity requires uniformity. Pastor Efrem paints a vision for a church rooted in the Gospel’s radical call to love beyond categories of color, culture, or class. In a time when faith communities can be drawn into the culture wars of division, Dr. Smith invites us back to the cross—the place where identity is reclaimed, dignity is restored, and love triumphs over hate.
Interviewee: Dr. Efrem Smith
Pastor Efrem Smith is an internationally recognized leader who uses motivational speaking and preaching to equip people for a life of transformation. He consults on issues of multi-ethnicity, leadership, and community development. Efrem is the former president and CEO of World Impact: an urban mission, church planting and leadership-development organization. He’s the author of several books, including his latest, “Killing Us Softly.” Efrem is a graduate of Saint John’s University and Luther Theological Seminary and received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary and most recently earned his Doctor of Ministry degree in Church Leadership and Reconciliation Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary.
Efrem is married to Donecia and has two daughters. He’s excited to be a part of all that God is doing in and through the Church. He, Pastor Bob, and Pastor Susie are encouraged by the rapid growth of Midtown Church and are eager to work together and share the love of God throughout the Sacramento region.
Authored Books:
• www.amazon.com/Church-Everyone-Multi-Inclusive-Community-Generations/dp/1514005506
• www.amazon.com/Post-Black-Post-White-Church-Community-Multi-Ethnic/dp/1118036581
Connect with Mission Church MSP:
Website: missionchurchmsp.org
Instagram: instagram.com/MissionChurchMSP
Facebook: facebook.com/@MissionChurchMSP
YouTube: youtube.com/@MissionChurchMSP
