Author: Texas Gospel

Are You a Genuine Follower of Christ? Examining Your Faith

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER STAFF

In Matthew 7:21, Jesus delivers a sobering truth: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” This verse serves as a warning against superficial faith and challenges us to examine the authenticity of our relationship with Christ. In today’s world, many people treat faith like a consumer product—if they don’t like one version, they simply shop around for another. This mindset has led to a proliferation of “generic” Christianity, where people seek convenience and comfort over true obedience to God’s Word. The question we must ask ourselves is this: Are we genuine followers of Christ, or have we settled for a watered-down version of faith?

Many individuals approach Christianity as though it were a buffet, choosing what suits their preferences while discarding the rest. If someone doesn’t like the teachings or practices of one denomination, they can find another that aligns with their lifestyle. For example, some churches may tolerate behaviors like drinking or gambling that others condemn. Similarly, when it comes to Scripture, many turn away from the King James Bible or other translations rooted in historical accuracy and opt for modern versions that feel easier to digest. While diversity in worship styles and translations isn’t inherently wrong, when these choices are driven by personal comfort rather than a desire for truth, they reveal a deeper problem: a lack of commitment to God’s authority.

This consumer-driven faith mirrors the way people view generic products in stores. Generic medicines often come with disclaimers stating they are not made by the original manufacturer. In the same way, generic Christianity lacks the qualities of true discipleship as taught by Jesus. Genuine Christianity is defined by love, humility, sacrifice, and obedience to God’s will. Yet many settle for an imitation—a faith that looks good on the surface but lacks substance. Jesus warns in Matthew 7:22-23 that many will claim to have served Him but will be rejected because their hearts were never truly aligned with Him. These sobering words remind us that outward actions are meaningless without inner transformation.

Some people mistakenly believe they can earn their way into heaven through good deeds or financial contributions. Acts 8:18-22 recounts how Simon the sorcerer tried to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, only to be rebuked by Peter for his misguided thinking. Similarly, today’s “generic Christians” may rely on church membership or acts of charity as their ticket to salvation. However, God desires more than empty gestures—He seeks hearts fully surrendered to Him. True giving flows from gratitude for God’s grace, not an attempt to earn His favor. Genuine faith is marked by humility and a deep understanding of our dependence on Christ.

To avoid becoming a generic Christian, we must examine our lives honestly. Are we motivated by God’s work in us, or are we simply going through the motions? Psalm 119:165 reminds us that those who love God’s law will not be easily offended—a sign of spiritual maturity and peace. Genuine Christianity requires faithfulness, commitment, sacrifice, and moral purity—qualities that reflect Christ Himself. Heaven will not be a mixture of genuine and generic believers; only those redeemed by Christ’s blood will enter.

Now is the time to get real for Jesus—to reject imitation faith and pursue an authentic relationship with Him that transforms every aspect of our lives.

Arson Fire Destroys Church in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

A fire that destroyed a church in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan, in September 2024, has been determined to be the result of arson, according to a news release from Loon Lake RCMP. The press release says a suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.

On the morning of September 28, 2024, Loon Lake RCMP were called to respond to a fire at a church on Main Street in Loon Lake. When officers arrived, the building was already fully engulfed in flames. Loon Lake Fire Services were on the scene, working to control the blaze. Fortunately, no one was in the church at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Initially, the RCMP described the investigation as being in its early stages. Officers asked the public for help, encouraging anyone who had seen anything suspicious or who had security camera footage from the area to come forward. At the time, the cause of the fire was unknown, and police considered it suspicious.

After weeks of investigation, RCMP announced an arrest in the case. On December 7, 2024, 25-year-old Shandon Chief, from the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, was taken into custody. He has been charged with one count of arson under Section 434 of the Criminal Code. In addition, Chief was arrested for breaching a conditional sentence order.

Shandon Chief appeared in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on December 9, 2024. The RCMP have not released additional details about the evidence that led to the arrest.

The destruction of the church marks a significant loss for the Loon Lake community. Police continue to encourage anyone with information about the fire to contact them.

Discover the Inspiration Behind ‘There’s a Light Shining in Bethlehem’

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

The Kramers Christmas song “There’s a Light Shining in Bethlehem” carries the message of the birth of Christ and the hope He brings to the world. Inspired by scripture, the lyrics are anchored in Isaiah 9:2-6 and Matthew 2:2, which highlight the prophecy and fulfillment of Christ’s arrival.

Scott and Rachel Kramer explained, “In realizing the birth of Christ in Bethlehem, one recognizes the fulfillment of scripture in Isaiah 9 and the transition from a world living in darkness to a world now having received the glorious Light of Jesus Christ.”

Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records There’s A Light Shining in Bethlehem · The Kramers There’s A Light Shining in Bethlehem â„— 2024 StowTown Records

Scott shared that the song is also a reflection of personal transformation. “This is symbolic of our lives turning from darkness to light when we receive Jesus as our Savior,” he said. “This is the life-changing message of this song, and we must proclaim Jesus, the Light of the world!” The heart of the message is clear: those who know Christ have the privilege and responsibility to share His light with others.

The creative process behind “There’s a Light Shining in Bethlehem” was both unexpected and inspired. The chorus came to Scott just days before Christmas in 2023, as he experimented with a new guitar. “I wasn’t actually sitting down to work on a song,” he explained. “I simply wanted to enjoy playing the new guitar.” Over the next few days, the song took shape, with Scott collaborating with his wife, Rachel on the lyrics and arrangement. The final production, featuring a Middle Eastern-inspired introduction and ending, was brought to life with the help of a talented producer and studio musicians.

Listeners have already expressed how deeply the song has touched their hearts. Rachel shared a message from one fan who wrote, “We love your new song, ‘There’s a Light Shining in Bethlehem.’ It thrills our hearts as we listen to it and fills us with gratitude at the goodness of our Great God.”

The song reflects The Kramers’ mission to share the Gospel and spread hope through their music. “As a group, we are a very evangelistically-focused ministry,” Scott and Rachel explained. “We love to incorporate Biblical passages throughout our program. This song fits both of these criteria.”

“There’s a Light Shining in Bethlehem” is a proclamation of faith, hope, and light.

Finding Grace: Trusting in Jesus for Salvation

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Trying to earn God’s favor through our own efforts is both foolish and impossible. The law demands perfect obedience—every action, thought, and intention must align with God’s will. None of us can meet this standard. Even one failure means we fall short entirely, and the law condemns us. Relying on our own righteousness is like trying to build on a foundation of sand—it cannot stand.

By nature, we are deeply flawed and sinful. Our hearts are filled with pride and selfishness, and our actions are far from perfect. No amount of effort can erase our sins or make us acceptable before God. Trying to earn salvation through our works only reveals our inability to meet God’s perfect standards.

But God, in His mercy, has provided a way for us to be reconciled to Him—not through our own efforts, but through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus paid the price for our sins, offering us forgiveness as a gift. Acknowledging our need for Him and trusting in His righteousness is not weakness; it is wisdom. It’s the only way to truly be right with God.

If you feel distant from God, don’t wait to fix yourself. You cannot make yourself good enough—no one can. Instead, come as you are and trust in Jesus. Believe in Him as the one who has already done what you could never do. As Scripture says, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” Today, accept His gift of grace, and let Him make you whole.

Anthony Patton’s Testimony Through Gospel Music

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Anthony Patton of the Justified Quartet has found deep meaning in the group’s song “The Good, Bad and the Ugly.” For Patton, the song is more than just music – it is a powerful personal message about life’s journey and divine purpose.

Provided to YouTube by Daywind Records The Good, Bad, and the Ugly · Justified Quartet The Good, Bad, and the Ugly ℗ 2024 Big Picture Records

In his own words, Patton shares the emotional impact of the song: “When I sang the song, it really, I was like, whoa, ’cause it just fits my life so well. It just does. And I get emotional talking about it, but it’s just, it’s a good song for me.”

The song speaks directly to Patton’s personal experiences and spiritual beliefs. He feels the lyrics convey his own path, providing comfort and confirmation. “I’m a living testimony of just how far far God’s grace will go,” is a line that particularly moves him.

Patton believes the song has ministered to him, helping him understand his place in the world. For him, the music is a reminder that he is exactly where he needs to be, with a purpose guided by faith.