My Post Conference Sermon

 "For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister." Hebrews 6:10

As we close the books on our 2024 conference, I wanted to take a moment to ponder some things in the Bible concerning our church and the great amount of work that goes into a conference. Every pastor knows and appreciates the volunteer labor that goes into putting on a conference. No one can put on a conference by themselves. Every one who helps provides a valuable part of the overall ministry that we put on to help our pastors and evangelists and missionaries in the field.

First, the text says that this is ministry that ministers. Ministry is not standing behind the pulpit and preaching alone. It is the various avenues of service that goes on during a conference. Inside, outside, dealing with people, or money, or children, or parking. Some in public view, some hidden away out of sight. But it all works together to provide what every attendee needs; genuine ministry.

"But now indeed there are many members, yet one body." 1Corinthians 12:20

Second, conference is work. Everyone involved in conference works to make it all work. It is not easy or automatic. We have a job to do and, like any job, it involves work. Some do a lot of work, some do a little work, but all work to make conference a success. We work because God will not do our job for us. We cannot do God's job, and God will not do our job. Conference is a big job and it take a lot of work to make it happen.

"I beseech you, brethren, (you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) that you submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helps with us, and labors." 1Corinthians 16:15-16

Third, we work for God because it is His work. Our text begins with God. It ends by reminding us that we are ministering to His people in His name. And because we work for God, He is faithful to reward us for our work in His name. This conference is not just a pep rally or a sales meeting. It is not just to learn Fellowship rules and make doctrinal decisions. It is a place where God can work. He can call, and rescue, and redeem, and restore, and encourage, and rebuke, all by the working of the Holy Spirit.

So, we are finished with conference for this year. I wonder who God will stir up to join in and minister at conference next year.