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Hilltop Conference 2016

A good working definition of the word restore might look something like this:  To return a thing to its previous place or condition.  The word might be used in relation to a house, car, relic, or even a human relationship (Galatians 6:1).

Our theme for Hilltop Conference 2016 is RESTORE.  We prayerfully and thoughtfully selected this word because we believe that, at this point and time in history, there are several areas and levels where restoration is vitally needed. 

Our country is in desperate need of restoration when it comes to values, morals, and godliness.  Biblical principles upon which America was founded and on which it has stood for more than two centuries has been eroded by false philosophies and erroneous ideals.  This decline has resulted in a plethora of problems for which human wisdom has no answer.  God’s Word has the answer…Repent and Return to the One upon which the nation was founded.  We need to truly restore the motto: “One nation under God.”

When I browse through our Top ‘o Hill archives and see the pictures of fellowship meetings of days gone by, my heart yearns to see such gatherings again.  Buildings were packed and overflowing; men and women had come together as one, for the purpose of getting the Gospel to the world.  The drawing force of these meetings came in large part from the now famous words of our founder, Dr. J. Frank Norris…words like: “Into all the world with all the Word” and “I would do anything to keep a man out of hell.” 

I pray that God would restore this same passion, excitement, and unified, single focus to the work of our college and fellowship.  A glorious past is something to be very proud of.  However, today is the day that God has given to us that we might make a difference in the world.  We may not agree on every single issue, but we can all agree on the fact that God has called us to “preach the Gospel to every creature.”  This command is paramount and can unify and excite us toward becoming the massive movement that we once were.  RESTORE!

Even on a personal level, this word is relevant.  In David’s prayer of repentance in Psalm 51, he made this request of God… “restore unto me the joy of thy salvation.”  What he had been missing (joy in salvation) because of his disobedience, he is asking God to restore now that he has repented of his sin.

Hopefully, none of us is guilty of the same sin that David was, but any of us is capable of losing the fire of devotion that once permeated our lives and service to Christ.  When the fire goes out, the joy goes with it.  Here again, there is the need for restoration.

At Hilltop Conference 2016, we are looking forward to and praying that God will work His incredible work of restoration in our individual lives, our fellowship, and ultimately revival in America.  Our keynote speaker will be our friend, Jonathan Falwell, pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, Lynchburg, Virginia.  God is using him as a national voice for biblical values and godly principles through his local church as well as his national television program.  You will not want to miss this year’s conference.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.  He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.  He RESTORETH my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” (Ps. 23:1-3) (emphasis mine)