The One Who Did Not See Decay

AMY TURNER

In the book of Acts, Peter explained an important truth on the day of Pentecost. He quoted from Psalm 16, which says that God would not leave His holy one in the grave or let His body decay. Peter made clear that this passage was not speaking about King David. David died, was buried, and his body remained in the tomb.

Peter said it pointed instead to Jesus. Unlike all others, Jesus did not stay in the grave. His body did not waste away. He rose from the dead. Because of this, He has been lifted up and now sits at the right hand of God the Father.

I believe there is one way to respond to this. We must turn from our sins, put our trust in Jesus, and be baptized in His name. No one else is worthy of this honour. Only He has conquered death.

For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection,

Romans 6:5

Waylon Bayes to leave Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call after four years

AARON TURNER

Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call has announced that vocalist Waylon Bayes will be departing the group after four years of service, effective 1 January.

Christopher Reed reflected on Bayes’s contribution to the group and the organisation’s history of launching talented singers. Reed noted that the group has featured several notable vocalists over the years, including Grant Gibson, who went on to join 11th Hour, as well as Carrapec and Jerich Grubbs. He described the group as one that helps artists get their start in the industry.

Speaking about Bayes specifically, Reed drew a comparison to past praise given to another musician. “He’s a diamond in the rough, and that’s what Waylon Bayes is,” Reed explained. He emphasised that Bayes was an unknown talent when he joined the group at just 17 years old, and that Debra Perry & Jaidyn’s Call gave him his first opportunity in the industry.

Bayes will leave the group to pursue his education at trade school, which represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream. The group has asked supporters to keep both Bayes and Jaidyn’s Call in their prayers during this period of transition.

Abraham the Father of All Who Believe

JEFF TURNER

The Bible says Abraham is the father of the Jewish people because the nation of Israel came from his descendants. However, Romans 4 explains that Abraham is also the father of all who have faith, no matter their nationality. This is not about family bloodlines but about a spiritual connection.

In Genesis 15, Abraham believed what God promised, and God counted that faith as righteousness. This shows that salvation comes through trusting God, not by works or heritage. The righteousness Abraham received was not earned; it was given to him by God. This is called imputed righteousness. God credits His righteousness to those who believe.

Abraham was once a sinner who worshipped idols, yet he trusted in God’s promise instead of his own strength. In the same way, all who put their faith in God receive righteousness and become part of Abraham’s spiritual family.

Therefore, recognize that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham.

Galatians 3:7

Ronnie Booth rejoins The Booth Brothers

AARON TURNER

Ronnie Booth is returning to The Booth Brothers after an extended absence, his brother Michael Booth announced this week.

The Grammy-nominated Southern Gospel trio will feature Ronnie Booth, Michael Booth and Buddy Mullins going forward, Michael Booth said. He joked about his older brother’s return, calling him “the quitter” who “has quit quitting.”

(C) 2006 Spring House Music Group

The group plans to maintain a limited touring schedule to accommodate Ronnie Booth’s desire to spend time with his grandchildren, Michael Booth said.

Jim Brady, who had been performing with the group, is not leaving but is pursuing other commitments, according to Michael. Brady and his wife Melissa are maintaining a full performance schedule, and Brady serves on the board of the National Quartet Convention. He is also touring internationally with Gerald Wolfe and the Hymnsing Singers.

Michael Booth said he will focus more on solo performances as the group enters a new season. The trio previously toured extensively, performing 150 to 160 dates annually.

The Booth Brothers have received numerous industry honors throughout their career, including Grammy nominations, Dove Awards and Singing News Fan Awards. The group has produced multiple chart-topping songs in Southern Gospel.

Understanding the Battle Within

FLOYD ROGERS

Every person faces an internal struggle that the Bible refers to as “the flesh.” This is not about the physical body but about the sinful nature we were all born with. It’s our sin-natural pull away from God. When someone chooses to follow Jesus Christ and receives Him as Saviour, the Holy Spirit begins to change their desires and thoughts, turning them toward God.

However, this transformation does not remove the old nature entirely. The ability to act in the ways we once did remains, and at any time we can be tempted to go back to old patterns of behaviour. This ongoing conflict requires constant attention and dependence on God.

The battle is real, but through God’s strength, it can be faced with courage and faith.

For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want.

Galatians 5:17