One of GES’ ministries is conducting regional conferences in various locations. Some people can’t attend the national conference in Texas for various reasons. These regional conferences give people interested in GES’ ministry an opportunity to attend a Free Grace conference closer to home. Each regional is a little bit different, as the hosting church has a great deal of input on what we do. We want to meet the needs of each location.
On April 5-6, the First Baptist Church of Portland, OR will host a regional. Matt Toupin is the church’s pastor, and Steve Bils, a long-time friend of GES, will also have a major role in this conference.
The conference theme will be the “The Righteous Rewarder.” We’ll be dealing with the doctrine of rewards. When Christ returns, He will reward believers for their faithfulness to Him. Rewards have nothing to do with eternal life. Eternal life is given absolutely free, simply by believing in Jesus for it. But rewards will be given based upon the works we’ve done for Him. These rewards will determine our roles, privileges, and authority in the Lord’s kingdom. Whatever rewards He gives us, we know they will be just. The Righteous Rewarder will not make any mistakes!
This is an important topic. Most Christians today have never been taught about rewards. It’s a seriously neglected area of Christian instruction. This is particularly sad, because this doctrine is a major part of the NT. It is amazing that the majority of people in Evangelical churches have so little understanding of what the Bible teaches on the topic. In fact, most believers do not believe in the doctrine at all.
As always, the people at this regional will be able to obtain literature from GES related to the conference theme. There will be books that deal with rewards. People will also be able to sign up to receive the magazine, blogs, podcasts, and videos from GES that will help them get more information on the topic.
David Janssen, one of GES’ most popular speakers, will speak at the conference. So will Kathryn Wright and myself. We like to share the teaching load, as well as giving the folks who come some variety in who they listen to! There will also be plenty of time allowed to ask questions.
Anybody who wants more information on the conference can find it at the GES website at www.faithalone.org. under the “events” section. From there, if needed, you’ll find out how to call the church in Portland for even more information.
These are always exciting events. They give Free Grace people a chance not only to study the Bible together, but to meet like-minded believers. To that end, there’ll be opportunities to spend time with them in social settings, such as lunches and dinners.
This is my first time in Oregon. I just found out that many people who live in Washington and other states are actually closer to Portland than people who live in some parts of Oregon. It’s not often that GES can hold conferences this far out west. If you’re able to come, I hope to see you there.
