We had an opportunity this week to attend the 19th Annual Pre-Trib Study Group Conference, in Dallas. It proved to be one of the best conferences we’ve ever attended, with a capacity crowd, lively lectures, and spirited debate. Just one of the positives was, well, seeing everyone so positive. The dark clouds gathering over our nation have not dampened the enthusiasm of Bible believers, who rely on the Lord for strength and sustenance.
Conference hosts Tommy Ice and Tim LaHaye deserve kudos for bringing together a powerful lineup of speakers, ranging from crowd favorites like Jimmy DeYoung and David Reagan, to impressive newcomers like Dr. Paul Wilkinson of the U.K.
It was announced at the outset of this Bible prophecy gathering that the Pre-Trib Study Group (www.pre-trib.org) now reaches into 174 countries around the world! We wholeheartedly encourage you to visit their website for a rich database of articles and teaching materials.
You will also be able to purchase audio and video presentations of the talks, and you won’t be disappointed. Particularly impressive were the presentations by Wilkinson and Dr. Barry Horner, dealing with Replacement Theology and the effects Palestinian propaganda is having on the American evangelical church community. Horner made the astute point that we shouldn’t be intimidated by well-known “leaders” like Tony Campolo and Brian McLaren, because they are “driven by their presuppositions,” rather than relying on alleged new truths they have uncovered.
Of course, we are all driven by our presuppositions, but liberals often beat conservatives at this game, coming off looking like earnest seekers of truth, juxtaposed with “angry” conservatives. Horner’s point is well-taken.
The week reminded us that “our” community of pro Israel/prophecy enthusiasts has the blessing of superb speakers and teachers. The attending ministry leaders included Al Gist, Gary Fisher, Don McGee, Don Perkins, Randall Price, Mark Hitchcock, Joe Van Koevering, Mike Gendron, Tom Horn, and Bill Koenig.
Of course, our dear friends, Terry James and Todd Strandberg of RaptureReady also attended, with their associate, Mike Hile.
Koenig, of Koenig’s International News (watch.org), delivered a fascinating talk based on his insider’s knowledge of Washington politics. Bill has White House press credentials, and detailed his efforts to reach influencers with the message of Bible prophecy. That subject is obviously not the cup of tea for folks like outgoing WH Chief of Staff Rahm Emmanuel, but major kudos to Bill for working this lonely beat.
Price continues to prove without a doubt that he is one of the greatest teachers of this generation. His World of the Bible Ministries (www.worldofthebible.com) highlights his groundbreaking (pun intended) work in the field of biblical archaeology, and his presentation on the search for Noah’s Ark was spellbinding.
PM had many meals and after-hours discussions with these folks, and came away profoundly encouraged. A late-night gabfest with Don Perkins was a highlight; Don is one of the busier Bible prophecy speakers, and you are encouraged to check him out at www.according2prophecy.org.
Equally encouraging was the attendance of a number of pastors, including several from the Calvary Chapel network, including Chino Hills (CA) senior pastor Jack Hibbs. These men are on the front lines of teaching solid Bible to our nation, which so desperately needs it.
Please visit the aforementioned sites, and resolve to get in the game, as it regards taking a stand for the Bible in this generation. For eternity, you won’t be disappointed that you did.
Check out Jim’s group (www.prophecymatters.com) for site upgrades and added features and initiatives. We are making a push for a big 2011, to share with a hurting world that Bible prophecy does indeed matter for individuals, no matter where they are. PM will be announcing exciting new features in the coming weeks and we invite you to join us!
