I'm in Wake Forest, NC at the annual 9 Marks conference at Southeastern Seminary. This is the second year so the topic is mark #2, Biblical Theology. The first talk was an overview of the entire Bible delivered by Mark Dever. Thabiti Anyabwile was up next and he expounded Romans 9. Finally, David Platt spoke from Isaiah 6 and 53. Saturday we will hear from Danny Akin and Matt Chandler.

I appreciate the practical nature of the conference. The speakers have discussed how they approach Scripture, how they plan sermons, and how they preach with biblical theology in view.I appreciate the careful and passionate biblical exegesis. As someone who preaches week in and week out, what a pleasure to sit under the preaching of godly and gifted men!

Also, I appreciate the hard questions. After David Platt gave a passionate plea for us to take seriously the urgency of the Christian mission, Chandler asked how Platt avoided guilting people into action. Platt admitted there is a tension here. On one hand the Gospel is our foundation. Because of Christ's work on the Cross we now rest in him. No work will gain us God's favor. On the other hand the Gospel is our motivation. We will work because we have been changed. It was a helpful conversation.

Finally, I appreciate seeing old friends and meeting new friends--all who have come to be encouraged and challenged. 

Please pray for the rest of our time together.