Some might think a conference entitled ‘Supporting Work & Witness in a Secular World’ would be a little dry. However, this was certainly not the case with the North of England Conference which took place on 4 and 5 March, at Dewsbury Evangelical church.
The speaker, David Robertson (minister of St Peter’s Free Church in Dundee), argued that to communicate the gospel in Britain today a better understanding of both the culture and the gospel is required.
The state is God?
A depressing portrait of Britain where the state thinks itself to be God, there is a return to paganism, people are happy living dumbed down lives, and with sexual confusion as the norm, was expounded by David on the first evening. A reminder and challenge was given that the role of the church in this society was to keep on bringing a revolution of light and life by teaching the person and work of Jesus.
Employees speak
David helpfully opened day two by considering Christianity and work in the secular world. Employees spoke about how the church can help equip them to live for Christ in challenging jobs. News was shared from around the North of England, a highlight of which was the great news of three new gospel church plants in Yorkshire (gospelyorkshire.org.uk). David’s last talk considered Christianity and youth, media and community in the secular world, which again was helpful.
There was joy in listening to thought-provoking teaching throughout the weekend and all were encouraged to keep trusting the Word of God to do the work of God in an increasingly secularised culture. It was a great opportunity to meet friends and be spurred on by others in ministry. The 2017 conference will take place on 3 and 4 March at Dewsbury Evangelical Church.
