Pensees: Another Conference

Another Conference

Yesterday I attended First Baptist’s Conference on the Church for God’s Glory. In my humble opinion, it was the best one they’ve done yet. Of course, that is purely subjective, and I might be so inclined because of the topics and speakers. But whatever the reason, I enjoyed this day-long conference a lot.

If you are in the area and want to participate in a one-day conference where you will be sure to hear quality preaching and though-provoking seminars, I suggest that you schedule this in.

It’s not fancy. Pretty low-budget. Befitting for a conference hosted by a small church for pastors of small churches, I’d say. But you definitely get bang for your buck, and I think the $40 per person we paid was worth it. That’s not even a tank of gas anymore.

Scott Williquitte, the pastor of FBC, always preaches first. It’s his house. Scott won’t razzle-dazzle you, but one thing I have learned about him is that I can always be perfectly confident that I will get a well-exegeted, carefully crafted, theologically-sound exposition of whatever text he is treating. And that’s a treat for any preacher on a Monday morning! I got some new insights into Philippians 1:27-30 because of his work and I am definitely thankful for that.

Steve Thomas is a friend of Scott. He has spoken several times at this conference and he is always good.

Tony Fox had an outstanding presentation of the opening door in China. His session was an hour and a half long, but it flew by. Was very convicting at times. I was particularly moved by the fact that we have brothers who are daily looking over their shouders for fear of apprehension while leading literally thousands of churches (not people, but churches). I do so little for God. I wanted to hang my head in shame.

Another session that made me hang my head in shame was Kerry Allen’s 1.5 hour session on Spurgeon. This “intrepid soul” (as MacArthur referred to him in the forward to Allen’s collection of Spurgeonic quotes) has done a massive amount of research on Spurgeon. He spoke fast, was very interesting, and several guys told me that they thought his presentation was worth the cost of the conference.

Some didn’t like it too much, I guess. If you were Amyrauldian or a “Biblicists” you might have squirmed a little from time to time. But since I cherish the real Spurgeon, I thought the whole thing was delightful. (smile, smile)

Finally, Doug McLachlan spoke. Twice. There is no one quite like Doug McLachlan. He is just unique. I don’t think any man has had more influence on my ministry than Doug McLachlan. The few years of exposure I had to this man when I was a student at Northland Baptist Bible College are probably the most influential influences (is that redundant or what?) that had long-term impact on my ministry.

So, anyway, it was a good day. I wouldn’t fly half way across the country to go to this conference, but they don’t intend for it to be national in scope. But if you can get here in a couple hours drive, it might be worth blocking out May 19, 2008.

I have.