Author: Texas Gospel

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

Pakistan Court Sentences Two for Blasphemy on WhatsApp

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

A court in Gujranwala, Pakistan, has issued severe punishments in a blasphemy case involving social media messages. A 22-year-old student received a death sentence, while a 17-year-old was given life imprisonment for sharing content deemed blasphemous through WhatsApp. The sentences were announced this week.

The case began when the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) filed charges in Lahore based on a complaint. The plaintiff stated that he had received offensive videos and photos from three different mobile numbers. After examining the plaintiff’s phone, the FIA concluded that “obscene material” had been sent.

Initially handled by the Lahore High Court, the case was later transferred to a local court in Gujranwala for trial. An additional district and sessions judge delivered the verdicts. Defence lawyers contend that the accused students were “trapped in a false case”. However, details about the specific nature of the shared content or the defence’s evidence were not provided in the available information.

Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are among the strictest globally. They mandate capital punishment or life imprisonment for individuals found guilty of insulting Islam or the Prophet Mohammad. This applies to offences committed through spoken or written words, visual representations, or indirect insinuations.

It is worth noting that many blasphemy convictions in Pakistan are overturned on appeal in higher courts. However, the accused often face significant dangers even before their cases go to trial. There have been numerous instances of mob violence against individuals accused of blasphemy, with some being lynched before formal legal proceedings could take place.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the application of blasphemy laws in Pakistan, particularly in relation to social media content. Human rights organizations have expressed worry about the potential for these laws to be misused or to infringe on freedom of expression. As this case progresses, it is likely to draw attention from both domestic and international observers, given the severity of the sentences and the young age of the accused.

Igniting Your Spiritual Fire: The Role of the Holy Spirit

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JEFF TURNER

Today’s distractions make it easy to lose sight of what truly matters in our spiritual lives. Yet, as we reflect on the words of John the Baptist in Matthew 3:11, we’re reminded of a powerful truth: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.”

This fire of the Holy Spirit is not just a distant concept, but a living reality that should burn within the hearts of believers. Just as we find comfort in the warmth of a fireplace on a cold night, God desires His people to be spiritual fireplaces, radiating His divine presence and power.

A church that’s truly on fire for God is far from a drowsy, lethargic organization. Instead, it’s full of life with the Spirit’s energy. This fire consumes what’s unnecessary in our lives, purifies us, prepares us for service, cheers us in times of despair, softens hearts, unites believers, and empowers us for God’s work.

When a church is ablaze with God’s fire, it naturally turns to fasting and prayer. These spiritual disciplines become not just occasional practices, but essential parts of seeking God wholeheartedly. The Bible promises rewards for those who fast in secret, and history is filled with examples of great spiritual breakthroughs that came through prayer and fasting.

A church on fire also finds itself uncomfortable with worldly pursuits. The love for God burns so brightly that it naturally diminishes the attraction of worldly things. As 1 John 2:15 warns us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”

Perhaps one of the most visible signs of a church on fire is its deep care for souls. Just as Jesus wept over Jerusalem, a Spirit-filled church is moved with compassion for the lost. This compassion isn’t passive; it spurs believers to action, leading them to share the gospel wherever they go.

Being a church on fire means allowing the Holy Spirit to work freely among us, transforming us from the inside out, and using us as instruments of God’s love and power in the world. It’s a challenging call, but one that promises an adventure of faith like no other.

Gospel Musician and Evangelist Nancy Harmon Passes Away

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AMY TURNER

Nancy Harmon, renowned gospel musician and evangelist known for her passionate ministry and musical contributions, has died. Her passing was announced early this morning by her ministry, with her death occurring around 4 a.m.

A Facebook post by her ministry says, “Although my heart is broken, what rejoicing is going on right now in the Heavenlies. Our beautiful Nancy Harmon made her home going this morning around 4 a.m. No more pain, no more Alzheimer, no more struggles…nothing but joy and peace. I will miss you all my days, but I’ll see you soon. Go rest high, Love Special Lady! Arrangements will be made at a later date. Right now we are simply resting and thanking God for this beautiful gift.”

Harmon was a lifelong musician who dedicated her career to religious music and ministry. Beginning her musical journey at age 18, she played the organ in churches across multiple cities, including Kansas City, Missouri, and later expanded her ministry to locations such as San Jose, California, Portland, Oregon, and the Dallas Fort Worth area.

In 2022, Harmon received recognition for her contributions when she was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kenneth Copeland Bible College. She was particularly known for her song “More Than Anything in My Life,” which was said to capture her deep spiritual devotion.

Throughout her career, Harmon was supported by prominent religious leaders, including Pastors George and Terri Pearsons at Eagle Mountain Church and Kenneth and Gloria Copeland. Her ministry emphasized music as a vehicle for spiritual teaching and guidance.

Harmon believed her musical calling was predetermined, stating that God placed a song in her heart from the moment of her birth. She was remembered for her compassionate approach to ministry and her ability to touch people’s lives through music and faith.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date by her ministry.

Veteran Gospel Trio Paid In Full Releases New Album “Louder”

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JEFF TURNER

Southern gospel trio Paid In Full has unveiled the trio’s latest studio album, “Louder,” in collaboration with StowTown Records. The release marks the group’s second project with the label, following their 30th anniversary digital release in 2021.

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, Louder is available on all digital platforms worldwide.

The album, produced by 41-time Dove Award winner Wayne Haun, features six tracks written by renowned industry songwriters. Standout songs include “I Can’t Do It By Myself,” which explores themes of grace and mercy, and the title track “Love Is Louder,” described by group member Jeff Crews as an upbeat melody with a message of God’s faithfulness.

Lance Moore, the group’s lead vocalist, co-wrote “Better With A Friend,” a country-flavoured track emphasizing unity and companionship. Moore states, “Life is filled with uncertainty, but God is always faithful, and He is the greatest Friend we will ever have.”

Paid In Full, formed in 1991, has built a reputation for delivering polished performances both on and off stage. Early in their career, they caught the attention of gospel legend Jake Hess, who mentored the group and appeared on their 1998 recording.

Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records I Can’t Do This By Myself · Paid In Full Louder â„— 2024 StowTown Records Released on: 2024-12-13

StowTown Records President and CEO Landon Beene expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising the trio’s work ethic and musical quality. The album is available on all digital platforms worldwide, distributed by Provident/Sony.

Paid In Full, consisting of Bradley Littlejohn, Jeff Crews, and Lance Moore, began their professional ministry while in high school. They have since performed alongside notable gospel acts such as The Gaither Vocal Band and The Cathedrals. The group continues to focus on sharing their faith through music in various venues across the country.