Author: Texas Gospel

Southern Gospel’s Enduring Mission: Dealing Hope Through Music

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JEFF TURNER

In an era marked by uncertainty and division, one musical tradition continues to reach beyond generational boundaries. Southern Gospel music, with its roots in American Christian culture, maintains a singular focus: providing hope to those who need it most.

Clint Brown of Southbound says the purpose of Southern Gospel goes far beyond entertainment or even worship—it represents a calling to serve. It encourages the world.

“If there’s anything that I believe is a standard for Southern Gospel, it’s the fact that we are hope dealers. I mean, it just is,” Brown explains. “You know, whether it’s, I’m getting up in age and I’ve got something to look forward to, whether it’s Jason Crabb saying, ‘Through the fire, God will keep you.’ No matter what it is, whether it’s Ronnie Henson 50 years ago saying, ‘You know but when you’re in a place where you’re unsure and don’t know how to get out of, there’s always a lighthouse. I think Southern Gospel has always been hope dealers.”

Rather than accidentally stumbling into themes of encouragement, our artists and songwriters deliberately work to serve those facing life’s inevitable challenges. Brown’s reference to aging listeners finding “something to look forward to” is true. The lyrics address universal human experiences.

Contemporary artist Jason Crabb’s message of God’s protection “through the fire” carry the same idea of Ronnie Henson’s lighthouse offering guidance to the lost and uncertain.

We hope the music you hear on Texas Gospel is an encouragement to listeners. Perhaps not every song speaks to you. But at lest some of the time.

The Power of Christ in Every Believer’s Life

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FLOYD ROGERS

The life that lives inside every believer is Jesus Christ. He existed before time began and will continue forever. No one can defeat or destroy Him, because He holds the power over both life and death. This same Jesus now lives within those who believe in Him, dwelling in their spirits.

When a person accepts salvation, God connects them to His eternal life. It’s like being placed into a flowing river that stretches from eternity past to eternity future. From the moment of salvation, that person becomes part of this never-ending life with Christ.

This eternal connection means believers can always find hope and strength in God’s Word. No matter what happens in life, Christ remains their source of life and peace.

When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.

Colossians 3:4

Sing along to Mark Bishop’s “Now Lazarus Can Sing”

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SPECIAL CROSSROADS RECORDS

Arden, North Carolina (June 18, 2025) — Southern Gospel music favorite and GRAMMY-nominated Mark Bishop is known for being a conscientious and inspired songwriter whose unique way of looking at things has led to powerful affirmations of faith and salvation.

Now, Bishop has released a lyric video for his latest release, “Now Lazarus Can Sing,” highlighting the craftsmanship he brings to each song he writes.
“I was watching the news as someone was being ushered through a bunch of shouting reporters, trying to get information from him,” Bishop recalls. “His people led him to a waiting car where he jumped in, and they took off. My songwriter brain kicked in, and for some reason I began to wonder about the story of Lazarus and the questions people would have lined up for hours to ask him.

“He had seen it. And he was standing right here in front of them. How could you not ask him what it was like? I’m sure what he saw was beyond description.”

“Just as important as what he saw… what about how he felt? He was a recipient of perfect love. He lost all of his worry… his doubt… his regrets… everything negative.

“He was no doubt the most changed man in the history of the world.

“And maybe,” the singer-songwriter concludes, “… just maybe… he brought back some other traits… a little bit of residue from heaven. That’s what this song is about; how heaven rubbed off on Lazarus.”

Watch the “Now Lazarus Can Sing” lyric video above and stream it HERE.

The Significance of Caiaphas’ Words in Jesus’ Arrest

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AMY TURNER

John 18:14 records the words of Caiaphas, the high priest, who told the Jewish leaders it would be better for one man to die for the people. This moment marks the beginning of Jesus’ arrest, where both Roman soldiers and Jewish officials played a role. The frequent mention of the Jews in the story is not meant to single out Israel for blame. Instead, it reveals the failure of both Jews and Gentiles to recognise and honour God.

The truth is, the responsibility for Jesus’ death does not rest on one nation or group. Humanity as a whole stands guilty because of sin. All people, separated from God, are in need of redemption. Jesus’ death was not only for the Jewish people but for everyone. As Caiaphas unknowingly pointed out, it was indeed necessary for one man to die to save many. Through His sacrifice, Jesus offered life and hope to the world, a clear sign of God’s mercy and grace.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

Living Attentively Through the Holy Spirit

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FLOYD ROGERS

When we speak to someone about a matter that deeply affects them, it’s only natural to expect their full attention. In the same way, whenever God communicates with us, it is always about something meaningful and personal. His words are never without purpose, and because of that, He deserves our complete focus.

Living a life guided by the Holy Spirit means staying open and attentive to God’s voice. It requires keeping our hearts and minds tuned in, ready to hear Him however He chooses to speak. This is not meant to be rare or unusual. For those who follow Christ, it should be the normal way of life — always alert, always listening.

My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

John 10:27