Next the Conference: May 23-26

For those of you who don't know, I lead an annual, national conference called Next (formerly named New Attitude). This year we're gathering May 23-26 at the Baltimore Convention Center. I'm really excited about the theme we've chosen. We're taking four days to focus on the person and work of Jesus Christ. Here's the lineup of speakers and topics:

Joshua Harris on Christ's Preeminence
D.A. Carson on Christ's Incarnation
Kevin DeYoung on Christ's Life
C.J. Mahaney on Christ's Death
Sinclair Ferguson on Christ's Resurrection
Ferguson on Christ's Return

Why change the name?
The name New Attitude was a holdover from a magazine I published many years ago, but it really has no connection with what the conference is about. The name Next better captures the vision that's always been at the core of this event.

What is the vision of Next?
So much of the heart and mission of this event will be the same. The vision of Next is to gather worshipers of Jesus Christ who burn with a passion to see the gospel transferred to the next generation.

Are there any common misconceptions about the name "Next"?
Some might think the name Next is preoccupied with what is new, the latest, or the "next thing." Or even the idea that the "next generation" is more exciting because young is better than old. Actually, it's just the opposite. We're not concerned with what is new. We're not here to innovate. We want to understand and faithfully transmit truth from God's Word that never changes--truth that is solid and sound and old. And we're not fascinated with the next generation because it's better. We just love Jesus and we want whoever is coming behind us to know him, love him, and worship him with us.

Who should come to this conference?
Over the years New Attitude has come to be thought of as only a "singles conference" or a "college event." But Next recognizes that transferring the gospel is not limited to an age group or a marital status. While we are targeting the younger generation, we don't check ID at the door. Anyone, regardless of age, who is passionate to see sound doctrine passed on is welcome to join us.

So this is my invitation to you. I hope you can come. Stop by the Next website to learn more. Each month we're doing a "webzine" spotlighting one of the speakers. This month we're featuring writing and sermons by Sinclair Ferguson. You can also join the Next 2009 Facebook page.