Do origins matter? It may surprise you to discover that, for some, understanding their origins is quite irrelevant, and there are those who believe the account of creation in Genesis just doesn’t matter, especially in light of “modern” science. Others challenge the biblical record as full of errors, while still others are quite content to stay out of the “controversy” between creation and evolution.
Of course, Christians who express total confidence in the Bible are expected to know, believe, and defend all the doctrines of the Bible, including creation. The fact that God made the universe is foundational to every subsequent doctrine in Scripture. If He is not the Creator, then where is His authority to judge—or His power to redeem?
Each year, ICR conducts about 200 conferences and seminars at large city gatherings and at local churches. We are especially thankful for the interest of local churches in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Their close proximity to ICR’s headquarters allows us to have special extended seminar series with congregations eager to learn about their Creator.
Recently, ICR conducted a series of creation seminars at Glenview Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Titled “Creation Summer Series,” this unique opportunity allowed the science speakers at ICR to challenge a local congregation each week with the vital doctrines of biblical creation and about how science confirms Scripture.
And unlike many of our seminars where we are invited to speak on Sunday morning or perhaps over an entire weekend, Glenview Baptist scheduled a variety of ICR speakers for six consecutive Wednesday nights, as well as a Sunday kick-off seminar with Dr. John Morris. Topics included:
- Reasons to Believe in a Recent Creation
- Mount St. Helens and the Flood
- Scientific Evidences for Creation
- What You Haven’t Been Told about Dinosaurs
- Revisiting Life’s Mysteries: The Origin of Species and the Account of Genesis
- The Fossil Record and the Search for Noah’s Ark
- Astronomy Reveals Creation: How the Secrets of the Cosmos Confirm the Bible
Not only did the audience benefit from the top creation speakers in the country, but the church leadership was especially excited about the phenomenal attendance—from a typical 200 present during midweek to an average of 700 in attendance each Wednesday night. Senior Pastor Dennis Baw commented:
For quite some time our church has prayed for revival. When our children’s pastor suggested we invite ICR to our fellowship to impact our children’s parents on how to counter what is being taught on evolution in so many schools, I was thrilled. Not only did the entire concept excite me for that group in our church, but in my spirit I heard the words “Creation Revival.” Little did I know how God would do such a great work among our people! From the very first Sunday message, our people fell in love with Dr. John Morris and his loving yet expert presentations! The first Wednesday night our church was packed with nearly 1,000 men, women, students, and children. We then knew God was doing a great work in our church. That excitement and the crowds continued through the four weeks of Wednesday sessions; so much so that we asked to continue another two weeks. Revival? Oh, yes. There is a renewed love for God’s Word and His power throughout our congregation—for His creation as well as His new creation in Christ Jesus. We are looking forward to having Dr. Morris return regularly and are already planning our next conference with ICR.
Wednesday evening dinners at the church were a blessing of convenience for many who attended right after work. And age-related Bible study opportunities each week for children through teens gave all ages a chance to hear the wonders of creation.
The sessions’ focus on Scripture and science not only provided opportunities for specialized discipleship, but it also allowed the church to invite those who wouldn’t normally attend a “regular” church service. ICR conferences and seminars provide an open door to our local community and, sometimes, even a revival! Thanks be to God!
Cite this article: “Creation Revival” at Local Church. 2012. Acts & Facts. 41 (11): 18-19.
