The Definitions Conference was the culmination of a year of exploring what it truly means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Youth For Christ Rally
Before Songtime, our founder, Dr. John DeBrine, was the New England representative of Youth For Christ. This year, Youth For Christ used our conference to relaunched their efforts in New England. This pre-conference youth rally reminded us of the importance of reaching the next generation.
The Discipline of Following Jesus
Dr. Donald Whitney gave some great insight on some practical means of being a disciple. Focusing on two spiritual disciplines, Scripture reading and prayer, Dr. Whitney addressed how to overcome being bored in our devotions and showed us how to “Pray through Scripture” and “Meditate” on the Word of God.
The Heart of Discipleship
Dr. Tedd Tripp shared with us of the most important principle for disciple-making: connecting the heart of the gospel with the hearts of people. Talking about the attitudes of the heart rather than focusing on external behavior leads to opportunities to articulate the gospel. A much needed reminder as we think about the goal of making disciples.
Making a Difference
Chap Bettis from The Disciple-Making Parent and Michael King from Massachusetts Family Institute held some important workshops on how to address the challenges of raising children and teens in an increasingly difficult culture.
David Pinkney with Acts29 and Paul Johnson with the Cecil B. Day Foundation rounded out our workshop speakers with some great challenges to local churches on what they can do to strategically reach more people with the Gospel of Christ and fulfill the great commission.
Everything about this conference was designed to focus on discipleship. Our worship, lead by Erik Eskelund, taught us to sing the gospel to each other. We asked our attendees to come early on Saturday morning for coffee, fellowship, and prayer, two of which are essential for making disciples (although we shouldn’t discredit the power of coffee). With lunch and dinner provided, we encouraged our attendees to stay and discuss what they were learning during the sessions.
We hope that the impact of this conference will be felt throughout the Northeast as those who attended would continue to practice what they have learned and equip others to follow Christ.
Order the 2019 Definitions Conference Audio CDs as a thank you for your continued support to the Songtime Ministry. Please call (508) 362-7070.