Author: Texas Gospel

The Transformative Power of Christ’s Resurrection

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JEFF TURNER

In the quiet of dawn, hope emerged from a sealed tomb, transforming despair into joy. Mary Magdalene approached, burdened by grief, expecting to find the lifeless body of Jesus. Instead, she encountered an empty tomb, the ultimate symbol of victory over death. The resurrection of Jesus stands as the climax of the Gospel narrative, encapsulating the essence of Christian hope.

The story unfolds with a profound truth: Jesus was not merely resuscitated; He was resurrected, marking the first true resurrection in history. Previous instances of revival, such as those involving Lazarus or the widow’s son, were temporary restorations to life. In contrast, Jesus emerged from the grave with a transformed body, embodying immortality and offering a promise of eternal life to all who believe.

The narrative of Christ’s sacrifice was not one of vengeance but of divine love. Instead of sending legions to punish His enemies for their role in His crucifixion, God chose to resurrect His Son for them. This act demonstrated that control belonged to God, not to humanity.

The empty cross and tomb serve as God’s receipts for the greatest gift: the assurance that sin has been conquered and that believers have a secure future. In times of struggle or despair, this message resonates deeply—your worst day is never your last day. The resurrection assures us that no diagnosis or circumstance can define our ultimate destiny.

As we reflect on these truths, we see that God’s plan was foretold through numerous prophecies. Even those who opposed Jesus remembered His words about rising on the third day. They attempted to secure His tomb with guards and seals, yet no earthly barrier could contain Him.

On that fateful morning, as Mary approached the tomb with spices in hand, she was met with an angelic proclamation: “He is not here; He has risen!” The stone had been rolled away not just as a physical act but as a divine declaration that death had been defeated.

In this narrative lies an invitation: come and see the power of resurrection. It is an invitation extended to all who seek hope amidst despair. The resurrection is not merely an event in history; it is a living promise that transforms lives today.

At lest three dead in U.S. Christian school shooting

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

A devastating shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin on Monday has left three people dead, including a child and the suspected shooter. Seven others were injured in the incident, which unfolded shortly before 11:00 a.m.

Initial reports described multiple injuries at the nondenominational school, which serves approximately 390 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The scene prompted a swift response from local law enforcement, who have cordoned off the area and are urging the public to stay clear.

The United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is assisting in the ongoing investigation. Details surrounding the motive and sequence of events remain unclear as authorities work to piece together what led to the tragedy.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers released a statement expressing his concern for the victims and their families and extending gratitude to the first responders who acted quickly in the aftermath.

The incident has left the Madison community reeling as investigators continue their work to understand what happened at the school on Monday.

Old Time Preachers Quartet Announces Final Performance

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AMY TURNER

The Old Time Preachers Quartet, based in Nashville, Tennessee, has announced their retirement after a decade-long run. The group, founded in 2016, will conclude with a final performance in 2026.

Les Butler, owner of the quartet, stated that the group’s mission was to combine preaching and singing in the traditional style.

“God had a plan and a time,” Butler said. “We have tried our best to execute on that plan.”

The decision to retire comes as two members of the group, Tim Owens and Lee McNeill, have taken on pastoral roles, making Sunday travel unfeasible. Adam Borden, another member, is now engaged in full-time evangelism with a busy schedule. Butler himself cited the growing success of his other ventures, including Butler Music Group, Family Music Group, and REAL Southern Gospel Radio, as factors in the decision. He emphasized the broader reach and impact of these ministries compared to the quartet’s travels.

Reflecting on the group’s legacy, Butler expressed gratitude to all past and present members, including Mike Holcomb, Jeremy Ballinger, Bob Sellers, and Isaac Moore. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by their families and thanked the pastors and promoters who supported their ministry.

The Old Time Preachers Quartet will honour most of their scheduled performances for 2025 and early 2026. Their final dates include appearances at the Spring Jubilee in Ringgold, Georgia, and Hullender Farms in Apison, Tennessee, in 2025, with their last scheduled performance at Teays Valley Baptist Church in West Virginia in January 2026.

Fans can continue to purchase the group’s CDs and USBs through their website after the retirement.

Is Fasting Mandatory for Believers?

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JEFF TURNER

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6 about fasting have sparked debate among Christians. While He said “When you fast” rather than “If you fast,” this doesn’t necessarily mean fasting is mandatory for believers. Historically, Judaism only required one fast, with all others being voluntary. The New Testament maintains this perspective, presenting fasting as a choice for believers rather than a command.

Fasting is closely linked with prayer, particularly intense, passionate prayer. When believers are deeply concerned about a spiritual issue, fasting often naturally accompanies their fervent petitions to God. The lack of fasting among many Christians today may reflect a lack of engagement with significant spiritual struggles.

Scripture supports this view of fasting as a voluntary spiritual practice. In Matthew 9:15, Jesus says, “The attendants of the bridegroom cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them, can they? But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”

Ultimately, fasting remains a personal choice for believers, one that often arises from a deep spiritual need or desire to focus intently on prayer. Its absence in our lives may prompt us to examine our level of spiritual engagement and the intensity of our prayer lives.

Syrian Rebel Victory Raises Questions for Christian Minority

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

The recent capture of Damascus by rebel forces has ended 53 years of Assad family rule in Syria, prompting both hope and uncertainty for the country’s Christian minority.

Fr Bajhat Karakach, a Franciscan friar serving as Aleppo’s Latin-rite parish priest, explained that many Christians welcomed the regime change according to Vatican News Service. He stated that Syrians, including Christians, had grown weary of living under a government that offered little economic growth or development.

Over the past few years, rebel groups have shown increasing tolerance towards Christians, including returning previously confiscated property. After taking control of Aleppo, the rebels sent messages of tolerance to all minority groups, including Christians.

However, concerns remain about the future of Syria’s Christian community. Before the war, Christians made up about 10% of Syria’s population. Due to persecution by extremist groups and the impact of the civil war, their numbers have fallen from 1.5 million in 2011 to approximately 300,000 in 2022.

The international community’s role in stabilizing Syria and helping develop a new constitution that respects the rights of all citizens has been emphasized by religious leaders. Christians in Syria have faced challenges in recent years, including violence and discrimination. In Aleppo, the proportion of Christian residents decreased from 12% before the war to 1.4% in 2023. More than 20 churches were damaged during the conflict.

As Syria enters a new era, the fate of its Christian community remains uncertain. While some religious leaders express cautious optimism, others stress the need for continued vigilance and international support to ensure the protection of minority rights in the country’s future