Smith lectured at Moore Theological College, Oxford and Macquarie universities, among other institutions. He taught widely but specialised in philosophy and theology. He was at his best in introducing students to the great thinkers, Christian and non-Christian. He had a way of feeling out the person behind the historic figure, whether Socrates, Schleiermacher or Barth, and enabling his audience to understand their concerns.
A man of very wide interests, he also ran reading groups studying Milton, Homer and modern literature. He published two volumes of poetry, I’ll Not Pretend (1984) and More Than One World (1994). Smith’s remarkable work continued at Sydney Grammar School where he taught classics from 1975 to 1993.
Bruce Smith left a legacy of engagement with society in its political, ethical and cultural dimensions. He believed in the broad significance of the Christian message of reconciliation with God through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Smith Lecture programme intends to develop further this work of engagement.