World-renowned biblical scholar, speaker and teacher Ray Vander Laan is returning to the Drayton Reformed Church from March 30 to April 1.
The theme and topic for the conference is And He Went Up to Jerusalem, in preparation for Good Friday and Easter observations.
Over the past 29 years, Vander Laan has led study seminars in Israel attended by thousands and is well known as the host of the That the World May Know video series as well as the Faith Lessons video series.
Vander Laan, educated as a Christian, first visited Israel in 1975.
“God used the Hebrew approach to the text of scripture to fan the flames in my heart and soul. This fire has continued to grow throughout my life and ministry,” he said.
Vander Laan has been actively involved with studying and teaching the Bible in light of the culture in which God inspired it, using the methods of Jewish education to inspire many.
Vander Laan focuses his teachings on how Jesus’ words, actions and teaching methods were in keeping with the customs and traditions of the Jewish culture. He emphasizes the need to align 21st century culture and attitudes with the time and culture of Jesus’ world, and includes a lot of humour and fantastic visuals.
“I have a special interest in using my teaching ability and background to understand and share the message of scripture through the window of its language, culture, history and geography.” he said.
“My prayer is that my teaching will encourage people to confront our culture with the message of God. Seeing God’s Word in its Jewish context helps equip Christians to impact their own culture with the power of God’s word. The ancient perspective can serve to make God’s word intensely relevant and our calling to be his disciples more urgent.”
Vander Laan’s 2010 Drayton Conference packed the Drayton Reformed Church with attendees coming from as far as Rochester, New York, so early registration is recommended.
There will be an early registration discount for those who register by the end of February and special family and student rates are available. Refreshments and lunch are included in the registration fee but childcare is not.
Vander Laan will also preach at 10am on April 1 during the regular Sunday morning worship service, which is open to everyone. For more information about the conference or registration details, visit www.draytonreformedchurch.on.ca, email: rvlconference@draytonreformedchurch.on.ca or phone 519-343-3647.
