The Eternal Choice Between Mercy and Judgement

AMY TURNER

The Bible speaks clearly about the reality of eternal life and judgement. In Revelation 20:15, it says that anyone whose name is not found in the book of life will be thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire represents hell, a place of final separation from God. The passage reminds us that every person faces one of two final destinations: either eternal life with God or eternal separation from Him.

Importantly, this choice is not based on human achievement or personal worthiness. No one can earn their way to heaven by good deeds or accomplishments. Instead, entry into heaven comes only through God’s grace and mercy, offered freely to those who accept it. It is given to those who recognise their need and trust in the gift of life through Jesus Christ.

The message is simple yet serious: heaven is a place for those who have received mercy, not for those who rely on their own strength.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

The Rogers Family signs with Horizon Records, announces new single

SPECIAL CROSSROADS RECORDS

Arden, North Carolina (September 2, 2025) — Horizon Records announced today that it has signed The Rogers Family of North Carolina to their roster of Southern Gospel artists. The announcement comes simultaneously with news of the group’s debut single for the label, “He’s Still God,” now available for pre-save/add ahead of its September 26 release.

“A couple years ago at my home church, Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, NC, The Rogers Family had been invited to be a part of our annual Jubilee week,” recalls Horizon Records A&R Director Greg Bentley. “I had not heard of them before, but introduced myself since I do house sound for the church and got them set up and ready for sound checks. Not knowing what to expect, they kicked off the first song — and I’m sure that if anyone had been watching my face, they would have seen a big smile come up as the Family dove right in!”

“Since that day,” he adds, “I’ve watched them very closely and have gotten to know them much better. Not only is their God-given talent obvious, but their love for what they do and for the people they sing to is clear as well. I am beyond excited to start this journey with The Rogers Family on Horizon Records, and have already seen the Gospel music fan base embracing them. With Roger Talley at the producer’s desk and with his expertise in family harmonies, I know we are going to create something the world is going to fall in love with.”

Carrying on a tradition — and a name — that began when Ray & Helen Rogers founded The Rogers Family with their daughter Kim, the group now consists of Kim Shields on piano and her singing children: Samuel, who plays bass and guitar, Rebekah and Hannah. Their label debut, “He’s Still God,” features the group’s own creative arrangement of the song’s triumphant celebration of God’s everlasting power.

“We are thrilled,” the group says, “to begin this partnership with Crossroads, and look forward to working with Roger Talley and the rest of the team to create uplifting gospel music that will encourage the listener and magnify the Savior!”Pre-save/add “He’s Still God” HERE.

The Complete Healing of Jesus

AMY TURNER

In Mark 7:37, people expressed their amazement at Jesus, saying He did all things well, even making the deaf hear and the mute speak. A man who could not hear and could barely talk was brought to Him. Hearing loss had also limited the man’s speech, as often happens when someone cannot hear their own voice.

Jesus could have restored only the man’s hearing, allowing him to learn speech over time. Instead, His compassion matched His power. In one moment, both the man’s ears and his ability to speak were restored. He spoke clearly right away.

This act revealed more than a miracle of physical healing. It shows us the fullness of His mercy. It may not happen when we want. It may not happen how we want. But it will be complete.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.

John 10:10

Matthew 18 and the Presence of Christ

JEFF TURNER

Some people find comfort in Matthew 18:20, where Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” This is often quoted to reassure believers who feel alone. But the meaning of the passage is not about general comfort or fellowship.

Consider the wider context of Matthew 18. Jesus is speaking about church discipline. When someone in the church continues in sin without repentance, the process includes confronting them privately, then with one or two others. If there’s still no change, it’s brought before the church. The gathering of two or three witnesses is to confirm the response of the person being corrected. They witness whether the individual has repented or not. Jesus promises His presence in this difficult process. He is there not simply to comfort, but to support the pursuit of purity within the church.

This doesn’t mean Jesus is only present when believers gather in groups. In fact, other scriptures like Matthew 28:20 say, “Lo, I am with you always,” reminding us that His presence is with each believer at all times. Believers can pray alone, trust that Christ dwells in them, and know that they are never truly alone.

Matthew 18:20 is about accountability, not comfort.

The Eternal Choice Between Our Deeds and Christ’s Sacrifice

AMY TURNER

One day, every person — regardless of status or background — will stand before God to be judged. The Bible speaks of this in Revelation 20:12. We’re told how the dead will stand before a great throne while books are opened, recording what each person has done in life. These records will be the basis for judgment.

Another book will also be opened: the Book of Life. According to Revelation 20:15, anyone whose name is not found in this book will face separation from God in the lake of fire. This is a serious decision everyone must consider.

Each person has two options. They can either face judgment based on their own actions, recorded in the books, or rely on what Jesus Christ has done through his suffering and death. This choice determines whether one’s name is in the Book of Life.

Will you trust in your own deeds, or in the sacrifice of Christ on your behalf? The decision shapes your eternal future.

The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”

John 3:36