In a recent meeting with my TGC colleagues, one of our senior leaders observed: “TGC is not primarily a content organization that also does convening. We are a convening organization that also produces content.” In other words, the “C” in our name matters. We are not The Gospel Content organization. We are The Gospel Coalition.

When Tim Keller and Don Carson launched The Gospel Coalition in 2005, it was only a relational, offline coalition of like-minded pastors who occasionally met for private conversations and encouragement. TGC’s first website didn’t launch until two years later, in 2007. And throughout TGC’s history, offline relationship-building, networking, and in-person gatherings have been an indispensable foundation of our ministry.

One distortion of the digital age is the mistaken idea that the most strategic thoughts and important conversations are the ones shared as online content or which play out in public forums like social media. But in our experience, the more fertile ground for truly generative ideas and truly productive conversation happens offline, in private (or at least includes significant offline, private components). It is here where real relationships can develop and real trust can be built, beyond avatars, performative debates, and the manifold ways we can misunderstand and dehumanize one another online.

This is why, even in the content TGC does publish online, we’re often urging people toward offline connection, especially in their local churches. TGC desires to be a network-of-networks that provides opportunities for fostering real, life-giving relationships. It is for that purpose that our national conferences have always been a major part of what we do.

And to that end, I strongly suggest you prioritize coming to TGC23 this September in Indianapolis. If you’ve been to a TGC conference before, you know that arguably the best part of the experience is not what happens onstage, but in the hallway conversations and meal-time meet-ups that take place over three days. Who knows—the person sitting next to you in a breakout session, or perusing the Crossway book table in the conference bookstore, might be your new best friend.

In a digital world that promises connection and community but often leaves us lonelier and more isolated, prioritizing in-person community is vital. So join us in Indianapolis for an embodied experience of learning, worship, and connection. Come with a friend, or 10! (group discounts available), and be blessed by the fellowship of the diverse body of Christ, brought together by the only tie that truly binds: the gospel of Jesus Christ.