“Let every kindred, every tribe
On this terrestrial ball,
To him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all.”
Each year, on the first Sunday of November, I stood in the family pew and joyously sang the fifth verse of “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.” As international flags were paraded through the sanctuary and hung from the balcony, I imagined myself standing before the throne of God worshiping with people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. As the sanctuary flooded with color, I was astounded by the extent of God’s kingdom and awed by his glory. I was proud to be a part of his saving work across the globe.
As a child, I anticipated Tenth’s Global Outreach Conference with almost as much excitement as Christmas—and I love Christmas. I loved the way the flurry of activity, new people, sights, smells, and foods gave me a small glimpse of the world outside of Philadelphia. The week was inevitably filled with stories of God moving in unimaginable ways around the world. Tenth’s partners bore witness to the power of the gospel in bringing salvation to those around them.
As I grew older, the GO Conference became a time to connect with the people who inspired me the most. Trips to visit Tenth’s partners nurtured in me a desire to follow in their footsteps. The conference provided a place to ask their advice and learn the joys and challenges of their work. It instilled an excitement to be part of God’s kingdom work.
As Tenth’s congregation gathers again this November, we celebrate the saving work God is doing through our global and city partners. We dwell on his provision, rejoice in his sustenance, and commemorate his faithfulness to them. We cover our partners in encouragement and prayer and send them back to their work. We become more aware of God’s majesty and the power of his word by learning about his movement around the globe.
Romans 1:16 says, “For I am unashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Dr. Hensworth Jonas, Presiding Elder of the East Caribbean Baptist Mission, church planter, school principal, and pastor on the island of Antigua, will speak to us about the power of the gospel to sustain itself and its bearers. He will teach us why we need not be ashamed and what it looks like to live unashamed lives in both local and international contexts.
When you come to the conference, come ready to ask questions and listen to stories. Talking to partners and learning about their work is a two-way street. You will be encouraged by hearing the power of the gospel in their context, and they will be encouraged by your interest and support of their work through prayer.
Come and celebrate with us the work of God which allows us to stand before others unashamed.