I would like to invite you to join me next fall, September 7 – 9, 2022, at The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove, in Asheville, North Carolina. I will be the guest speaker that week, teaching a Biblically-based study entitled “Living Distinctively Holy Lives in an Increasingly Unholy World.”

As we near the return of Christ, the Bible predicts evil will increase, and the persecution of believers will intensify. Jesus said, “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12).

As our world becomes increasingly secular, it will be imperative for Christians to stand in sharp contrast to the surrounding culture.

Simon Peter wrote, “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming” (2 Peter 3:11-12).

In the future, I believe the church should move from a “seeker-friendly” emphasis to presenting a considerably different alternative. The Bible calls us to be a people who are not conformed to this world. The world needs to see such attractive righteousness in believers that they conclude, “That’s what I want for my marriage, my children, my future.” Regardless of the world’s reaction, we are “called out of darkness into His glorious light” (1 Peter 2:9).

The topics for our study will be:

“Living in holiness, not wickedness” (2 Peter 3)

“Living in truth, not deception” (2 Thess. 2)

“Living in love, not hate” (1 Cor. 13)

“Living in faith, not fear” (Philippians 4:6-7)

“Living in joy, not misery” (1 Thess. 5:16-18)

The Cove is in an absolutely gorgeous setting, nestled in the Smokey Mountains, just outside Asheville, North Carolina, and everything about The Billy Graham Training Center is well done. The accommodations are first-class, the food is excellent, and the grounds are beautifully manicured. The Cove is one of the few places where, as soon as we drive through the gate, my wife breathes a sigh of relief and contentment.

The Billy Graham administrative team always provides superb inspirational music and worship. And there’s always a spiritual uplift from having fellowship with and worshipping with Christ-followers from across the country. Visit this link to see various package options and registration. Should lodging at The Cove become fully booked, you could stay at one of the many hotels in the Asheville area and still have access to all the meals and services at The Cove.

If you are interested in traveling from Louisville on a chartered bus, contact Bob Carpenter at 5o2 836 2277. Or learn additional details during a pot-luck dinner on January 12, 6:30 p.m. at Southeast Christian in Room 202. Bring some fried chicken or a covered dish to the dinner where Bob Carpenter will share details and answer any questions you might have about the proposed trip.

Jesus often withdrew from the crowds and went into a solitary place to pray and be with His Heavenly Father. Those of us who follow Christ should make time to do the same. Retreating at The Cove not only provides excellent worship, Bible study, and fellowship, but there will also be plenty of time to hike, relax in a rocking chair on the massive porch overlooking the mountains, or find a solitary place to read scripture and pray.

Plus, the Asheville area has plenty of unique shops, golf, and recreation opportunities to enjoy. You may even want to consider adding a day or two to your trip to make it a spiritual retreat and vacation for you and your spouse.

I hope to see you there!

  • Bob

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