Boaz is Always Hungry

Six-month-old, cream-colored, Labrador retriever Boaz, as a relatively new addition to our domicile, seems to be perpetually hungry. He is a growing boy and as such sports an insatiable appetite. This fact reminds me of how often some saint from the churches lodges a similar request: “Where can I find a good Bible Conference? I am starved for the simple exposition of the scriptures.” Many seem to want to attend a Bible Conference where well-known students of the Bible, who are skillful preachers, walk the congregation through passages of Scripture while giving applications of these teachings to their lives. Usually these saints are searching for a venue where reasonably priced, clean facilities are available for a few days. They are hoping that children and youth will be similarly fed rather than entertained, and most hope for available restaurants with healthy meals.

          Many of the great large conferences are no longer available. But a plethora of smaller, superb conferences are springing up. Check out these two that remain among the best ones open to you. Pastor Stoney Benfield and the Prospect Baptist Church in Albemarle, North Carolina, together with Dr. David Olford of Olford Ministries International, provide a classic conference in Exposition, May 4-7, 2026, this year featuring “Expository Preaching and Leadership” for preachers whether lay or ordained, pastor or evangelist, with the intent of “rightly dividing the word of truth.”

In 2026, this conference features Dr. David Allen, whom I consider the premiere professor/preacher in evangelical life today. Whether the object is crisp, riveting exegesis, skillful use of illustrations, cogent incorporation of insights from the biblical languages, or use of humor in preaching, Dr. Allen is incomparable. And while the preacher is studying with Dr. Allen, his wife can be a part of a fabulous pastor wives conference with Missy Benfield, Jessica Pigg, and Kathryn Caldwell. The cost is $125 for the preacher; $175 for the husband and wife together. Prospect Church will assist those interested in determining lodging as well as providing information on meals. Friends are attending from across the nation. I have been there, and I can tell you that a benediction from God awaits you. For more information, visit the website of Prospect Baptist Church or call them at (704) 982-6167.

          A Bible conference held in the fall, September 4-7, is the famous Milldale Bible Conference in Zachary, Louisiana. This great conference featuring home-cooked meals and residence housing has been recovering its storied past in recent years. Directed by Pastor Jeremy Pruitt, you will hear Pastor Pruitt of Milldale Baptist Church, Dr. Bob Pittman, retired evangelist; the eloquent pastor from Memphis—Dr. Tommy Kiker, preaching regularly to one of Louisiana’s great congregations; and once again Dr. David Allen, one of Baptists’ greatest preachers. “Brother Paige, will you not be there also?” “Yes, though scarcely worthy to be mentioned in company with these able prophets, Pastor Pruitt has been kind enough to invite me again to Milldale.”

Whether your choice is one of these or one of many others available, choose a Bible Conference to attend this year. Relax for a few days with an open Bible in your lap. Give extra time to walking with God in concerted prayer and encourage your spirit in the way. Return to your church with a refreshed vigor from God. In a word, may God grant revival to us all!