I am currently in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee attending the Great Smokey Mountains Grace Bible Conference. I am speaking nightly on the topic "Who Art Thou Lord?" It is fascinating to see the unique way God makes Himself known in Paul's epistles. Attendance has been good and daily studies excellent. It is refreshing to hear so many different men preach the message of grace--the same truth packaged in different containers!
The Dowell family goes all out to be generous hosts. Their commitment to the Word rightly divided and to what we are doing through Grace School of the Bible is unwavering. We thank God for them.
Last night we had our annual "slider night." If you don't know, "slider" is the nickname for the little Krystal (up north they are Whitecastle) hamburgers. They are "belly-burn" specialties--especially when consumed between 10 and midnight. This morning there was much physical evidence on display of the results of such consumption! But they are "soooo gooood" going down--all the more so with a cold Dr. Pepper!!!
One special treat at this conference is enjoying Jim Wiltshire leading the music. He not only leads the congregational singing and coordinates the special music, but provides his own unique touch to it all. Jim has wide experience on the gospel music circuit, he and his trumpet go together with a natural grace. When Jim sings you not only hear his accomplished voice but, more importantly, you hear his heart--a heart filled with the love and grace of God. It's always good to have a time of fellowship with Jim and Carol.
Several have emailed to asked if there have been any "controversies" at this conference yet. Interesting how expectations arise! No. Things have been happy and forward moving this week--sorry to disappoint.
Cynthia was not able to accompany me. She was in Arizona last week tending grandkids. She is at home this week (while I am in Tennessee) doing the same and she will be going to Florida next week (when I get back home again) for more. Proves that grandkids trump grandfathers at any and all times. I have answered about 200 emails, written 8 letters, prepared three weeks of radio messages along with next Sunday's studies in Colossians and Galatians for Shorewood. Haven't been to one antique store, haven't visited one variety shop, haven't seen any of the sites; have missed my wife!
During the midst of this week I received a disturbing report about problems developing with two of our preacher friends. It took the wind out of my sails (Prov. 15:13; 17:22). Here is not the place to go into this, but it does demonstrate the unrelenting assaults of the adversary and how they often come at moments when we least expect them--when you are breathing deeply the refreshing air of a mountain top, you are more susceptible to the "stink bombs"! If I have learned anything, it is the importance of keeping a strong commitment to boldly "preach the Word." It is the strong proclamation of the sound doctrine we stand on that protects us from those who do not stand on the same foundation. A "hot pulpit" is one of our greatest protections. I'm going to remember that when I am preaching tonight!
Maranatha!
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1 comment:
My husband and I really enjoyed the conference. It was the first time we have attended. We hope to make it back next year. There are not any assemblies near us in NC so we listen to your messages on your website. We enjoy your blog also. Take care.
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