Dan Smith: An Ode to Women With Big Bibles

CBN.com Dan Smith, 33, didn’t grow up in a religious household. Dan’s grandfather occasionally took him to Sunday school. 

“We didn’t go to the main church service because he disagreed with some of the stuff the preacher said,” says Dan. “So I just went to Sunday school, and I hated it.” 

When he was 15, Dan became a Christian through the help of a neighbor. His outsider attitude helps him round up the “unchurched,” just like Jesus did. When he was a creative arts minister at a church outside of Washington, DC, Dan created a video parody of Sir-Mix-A-Lot’s “Baby Got Back,” an ode to women with generous behinds.

Dan’s version, “Baby Got Book” is an ode to women who carry big Bibles. The video has been viewed millions of times. Dan used the publicity from the music video to help sell his comedy DVD's.  Then he used the money and newfound fame to start a church 15 months ago for people who didn’t like church.

CHURCH, ANYONE?

“Some people don’t like church because it’s boring, full of hypocrites, and often led by greedy dudes who only care about cash flow,” says Dan. 

Dan says worshippers won’t find his services boring. “You may not even feel like you’re in a church,” he says. Technically, they are not. Services are held in a multiplex movie theater. On any Sunday morning, people fill the lobby, munching on donuts and bagels and sipping coffee or hot chocolate. The video, “Baby Got Book,” plays on a loop with other comedy videos Dan made. Their services are complete with comedy skits, stories and a DJ or band. Like a professional show, the service has a rundown sheet with lighting, audio, and video cues.            

“We’re not trying to reach other Christians,” Dan says.

He says that 85% of his generation doesn’t go to church.

“Maybe it was that they never connected. Church always seemed lifeless, out-of-touch and (ironically) unspiritual,” says Dan. “That’s why we wanted to start a church for the 85%.” 

Dan’s philosophy is that church should be about developing healthy relationships, with God and ourselves and each other.

“The church should be the hands and feet of God, basically out in the community, serving the needs around us,” says Dan.