COOLJC Goes To Detroit!

Year after year, large church organizations descend upon cities for religious conventions. Thousands of saint (and even aints) take trains, planes and automobiles in search of a greater deliverance. We attend prayer meetings, christian pep rally’s, gospel concerts and evening worships all with the expectation that God is to be glorified and the enemy is to be horrified. We dance and shout and speak in tongues by the droves and have great fellowship with friends that we have not seen since the last convention. The question is, once the convention is over, what is the state of the city that we all were just in? I was on yahoo.com and did some research on Detroit, Michigan’s economy and I quote.

“Detroit, Michigan: The job market is in chaos. People are getting laid off left and right. National statistics seem to point to a significant problem with job loss and job income not keeping up with inflation. As a result, many nice neighborhoods are now abandoned due to people leaving their homes. Inventories exceed one year (under six months is what we want to see), and the foreclosure problem hit Detroit hard. With fewer jobs to support home purchases, I don’t see Detroit turning around anytime soon.” yahoo.com

I’m going to be honest with you saints, Detroit is not the best city when it comes to economy right now. There are a lot of people whom are extremely depressed and oppressed of the devil. People have lost their jobs, their homes and crime is at an all time high. White people have moved out of the city limits and have left African Americans to basically kill each other off. Here are some facts about Detroit, MI:

 Detroit is 82.7% African American. There were 336,428 households out of which 33.9% have children under the age of 18 living with them, 26.7% were married couples living together, 31.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.1% were non-families, 29.7% of all households were made up of individuals and 9.2% had someone living alone who is 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.77 and the average family size was 3.45.

Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, I want to appeal to you today to make a difference when we go to Detroit this March 2008. If the United Pentecostal Church, INC can come to Charlotte NC and feed over 10,000 people, give 5,000+ kids school supplies all the while passing out tracts and baptising “un churched” souls in Jesus Name, surely we can do the same if not greater in Detroit this year.

When we get off the planes and trains, we should immediately start passing out apostolic tracts to everyone we come in contact with. We should ask everyone in the street to come to our evening worship services. Its not about stealing members from other churches, its about making a difference in a city that is literally considered by some “the dirt underneath the fingernail’s of the United States of America”. There is hope for Detroit I repeat there is hope for Detroit. Let us all do our best to go with Holy boldness and declare that there is a saviour and His Name is Jesus and he wants to set all free that are oppressed and depressed of the enemy. We don’t need another shout fest! We don’t need another fellowship! We don’t need another mall to go shopping in. I think we have seen enough malls in all of our travels. It is high time to be about our fathers business.

If you don’t heed to what the Spirit of the Lord is saying, I know someone else who would be glad to come into Detroit and take every soul straight to hell with them. Can we say Louis Farrakhan! Can we say the Jehovah’s Witnesses! Can we say the Mormons! This year should be about evangelism (not step shows). This year should be about soul winning (not midnight musicals). Why is it that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints(Mormons) can have an entire state (Utah) full of adherents but when it comes to the black Apostolic church, we are just satisfied with street corners full of store fronts (with just 10 people in them and 8 of them are women and children). Lets take Detroit by storm this year! Share this blog with all of your other COOLJC young people across the nation.

With that in mind, put your chapel veils on, your long jean skirts and get your tracts and lets be about our Father’s business!

Church Spotlight: Christ Church Apostolic Indianapolis, IN

IF YOU CLICK THE LINK ABOVE, BE PREPARED TO BUCK TILL NO NOT ONE!!

Christ Church Apostolic, INC.

6601 North Grandview Drive

Indianapolis, IN  46260

(317) 255-8761

Bishop James E. Tyson, B.A., B.Th., M.A., D.D.

Pastor & Founder

http://www.christchurchministries.org/

Now thats what I am talking about. Thats how you ring in the New Year! This is a clip from Christ Church Apostolics New Years Eve 2007 Service. MY GAWD! (and I thought Refuge Temple was crazy). All I can say is keep it up yall. Between Christ Church and Mt. Zion Apostolic all in Indianapolis, IN I dont know which church bumps the more harder. Indianapolis must be the “seat” of the Apostolic Faith! YEAH LORD!

2 Women Shot While Holding Their Babies

 

Indianapolis, Indiana was rocked to its core by the senseless killings of two women, a toddler and a baby who were shot multiple times while being held in their mother’s arms.

Police are searching for two men who were seen running from the home.
The victims were Charlii Yarrell, 4 months; Charlii’s mother, Andrea Yarrell, 24; Jordan Hunt, 23 months; and Jordan’s mother, Gina Hunt, 24.

The two women and the toddler died at the scene. Four-month-old Charlii Yarrell was taken to Methodist Hospital with several gun shot wounds. She died a few hours later.
Police initially investigated a burglary at a vacant house late Monday night. A short time later they were called again about gunshots being fired across the street from the vacant house. Police entered the home through a broken window and found the bodies.
A set of electronic scales, a safe, a pound marijuana and several long guns were found in the house, according to police. Two handguns were later found in the street near the home.

The story has received national press coverage and more than 80 investigators have been assigned to the case. The murders are a top priority for every uniformed law enforcement officer in Indianapolis. “Whoever is responsible for this, we’re going to track you down like dogs,” Marion County Sheriff Frank Anderson said. “We’re not going to stop until we find you and put you in a cage where you belong.”   

2 face murder charges in deaths

‘Public can rest well,’ according to police chief

By Cordell Eddings

cordell.eddings@indystar.com

January 20, 2008

Two Indianapolis men are preliminarily charged with murder and two others with conspiracy to commit robbery in the Near-Northside slayings of two mothers and their two children, police announced late Saturday.

The men face initial court hearings and formal charges Tuesday, law enforcement officers said in a news conference in a Marion County sheriff’s office conference room.

The arrests and initial charges came just five days after Gina Hunt, 24, and her 23-month-old son, Jordan, and Andrea Yarrell, 24, and her 4-month-old daughter, Charlii, were gunned down in a house in the 3200 block of Hovey Street.

Those in custody are:

Dontae Hobson, 30, and Ronald Davis, 30, both initially charged with four counts of murder.

Zarumin Coleman, 21, and Jasper Frazier, 35, both initially charged with conspiracy to commit robbery.

All four also are initially charged with other crimes related to the case, police said.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Chief Michael Spears would not release any information on a possible motive for the shooting deaths or on any relationship between the men and the four victims.

“Right now we are developing leads and still trying to find information,” said Spears, who would not say if there might be other suspects. “Anything is possible at this point. But I believe the public can rest well this evening.”

More than 80 law enforcement officers have intensely worked the case since the Monday night slayings.

The initial charges were announced several hours after funeral services for the Hunts. Services are scheduled Monday for Yarrell and her daughter.

At the Hunts’ funeral, Marion County Prosecutor Carl Brizzi said that the brutal nature of the killings shook the conscience of the community, prompting people to provide information who otherwise might have stayed silent.

The mothers were holding their children as all were gunned down, police have said.

At Saturday night’s news conference, Brizzi said the four men face formal charges from his office Tuesday.

Metropolitan Police Detectives Tom Lehn and Jeff Wager are the lead investigators on the case. Police put a command center in the neighborhood, which lies just north of 30th Street between College and Keystone avenues.

Investigators say they still are searching for evidence, including information on a Colts license plate with the number IC8863, which they say is missing from a car they believed was used in the getaways after the shootings.

Shortly after the slayings, Marion County Sheriff Frank Anderson warned the perpetrators, “There’s a special place in hell for you. And we’re going to see that you get there.”

Late Saturday, the sheriff followed up on his remarks in the wake of the initial charges.

“To the victims, I hope they rest in peace,” he said. “To the ones who did this, I hope there is no peace for them.”

SAINTS, THIS IS A TRAGEDY! MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY OF THE 4 VICTIMS YOU SEE PICTURED ABOVE. THE ONLY THING THAT GOES THROUGH MY MIND IS, DID THESE SOULS KNOW WHO JESUS WAS? IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE SURE THAT AS SAVED BELIEVERS WE WITNESS TO AS MANY SOULS AS POSSIBLE SO THAT IF DEATH COMES, WE WILL ALL BE READY! WE MUST LIVE EACH DAY AS OUR LAST DAY! WE ARE TRULY LIVING IN THE LAST DAYS AND WE HAVE TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR CALLING AND ELECTION IS SURE! IRONICALLY THE FUNERAL TOOK PLACE AT CHRIST CHURCH APOSTOLIC IN INDIANAPOLIS, IN (WHAT IRONY, I FOUND A PRAISE BREAK CLIP FROM THEIR NEW YEARS EVE SERVICE, I WONDER IF THEY CHURCHED LIKE THIS AT THE FUNERAL???)

TAKE TIME TODAY TO WITNESS TO SOMEONE TODAY BEFORE ITS TOO LATE!

You’ve Got The Right Touch ! (Bishop Noel Jones)

Friday night (1/25/2008) I went to hear Bishop Noel Jones @ Greater Salem City of God Church here in Charlotte NC for there Holy Convocation.  I took 3 pages of notes on this particular night, but I wanted to share with my other fellow bloggers some key points to what I learned last night. I pray that you sit with your tent doors open as I attempt to transcribe to you how excellent of a sermon Bishop Noel Jones preached.

Without great leadership, we are always in trouble! When you have poor leadership, everyone suffers. Great leadership is an endangered species. When you find a great leader, that is a GIFT FROM GOD! All of us hate to be taken for granted. We must be reliable and always in place when we are serving our leader (Pastor). Remember, you never know what you had until it is gone and that should not be the case that’s why we must give God thanks for our leader.

There is no way to be transformed unless you have a changed mind. Mega churches grow at the expense of the smaller churches. We argue about Baptisms (though there is only 1 correct baptism) and how to take communion. The problem with Mega churches is that we no longer empower people. The mega church tells you to leave your offering and something marvelous is going to happen. They teach MYSTICAL DECLARATIONS and automatically something great will happen.

Turning to March 5:25, Jesus recognizes something in the woman with the issue of blood. He told her that her faith has made her well. Jesus places the healing on HER! Another argument states that faith has to be based in a trustworthy source. The concept of FAITH brings identity. Faith is an alteration of identity. When I was in the world, I walked according to the culture of the world. Now that I have faith in JESUS CHRIST, i take on his identity.

Understand this, YOU as a person don’t determine my outcome. Faith is fully determined by the Word of God. Don’t let people determine your faith / identity! Conform to the principles of Christ and mirror the principles that you get at the altar. You just don’t make God your magic Genii because of faith.

Waiting increases patience. Sometimes God can bless you so good until you exalt the BLESSING higher then GOD. NOT SO! This is why at times we have to have an Abraham test (remember the story of Abraham and Issac) or a Job test (remember the story of Job loosing everything). This is to guarantee that you exalt the BLESSOR and not the BLESSING.

In conclusion, saints, I want to share this with you. Jesus said to the women with the issue of blood “your faith has made you whole”. Understand this in closing, YOU ‘VE GOT THE RIGHT TOUCH! If you can just reach out and touch the hem of the garment of Jesus, he is willing and faithful to make you whole again. I pray these golden nuggets of truth have richly blessed you.

Bishop Huey Rogers – Don’t Stop Praying (throwback sermon)

261 Rochester Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11213
(718) 774-0401
Greater Bible Way Temple

www.biblewaychurch.org

OH MY SAVIOUR! NOW THIS IS OLD TIME APOSTOLIC PREACHING! 1980’s!

(Lord I wish Bible Way COOLJC would have stayed with the Mother Organization, how great we would be right now!)

Vashawn Mitchell – Promises

 Vashawn Mitchell

“Promises”

Pope of Pentecost Rating: 2 out of 5 stars ***

This project is BORING! Sorry Vashawn, I expected something a little bit better from a Chicago Native. Granted, since I’ve purchased the CD, I have been playing it all weekend trying to see if the CD would grow on me…..well……its not. The background vocals are whack. Perhaps I am biased because I enjoy hearing vibrato (i.e. Youthful Praise and Ricky Dillard) or perhaps I really wanted to go into a worship frenzy (i.e. Israel and New Breed). This project is just not doing it for me. Sorry folks, this one gets 2 out of 5 stars. Lead vocals are not great, background vocals are not great. The only reason why this even made a 2 and not a 0 is because of your BAND (which I give an A+). Even the Chicago Bump Part 2 was boring. When I hear shout music now a days, I  expect to pull my car over and get out and give Him a dance, instead, I listened and was not moved by the beats AT ALL! Better luck next time……

Television Schedule – for 23rd Annual Stellar Awards

Television Schedule – for 23rd Annual Stellar Awards

stellar-1.pdf

stellar-2.pdf

Should We “Silence” Our Brother When They Have Sinned?

For years, old school holiness churches have practiced they art of silencing an individual who has openly sinned against God. I use the word “openly” because there are a lot of secret sins that our pastors have no clue are going on in and out of our churches. Not many churches practice silencing anymore because it is usually promotes the saints to choose sides. Should I be on my pastors side or should I be on the individual who is silenced side. In all honesty, neither answers are correct. We are to be on God’s side! Lets go to the Word of God and see exactly what the Lord Jesus would have us to do when our brother is found to be in error.

Galatians 6:1
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.  

If our brother or sister is overtaken in a fault (according to the Word of God) we who are spiritual are to restore such an individual with meekness. To restore someone does not simply mean to walk up to them and say “Oh, I’m sorry that happened but don’t worry God loves you and so do I”. To restore literally means to rehabilitate that person in the Spirit of meekness. How are we going to make sure that person does not fall back into that same trap again unless we a) show them the error of their ways  b) show them that there is a more excellent way of doing things while c) helping them make sure that they don’t do that particular sin over and over again. Mind you, this technique will not help if the person does not have Godly sorrow (a repentive heart!).

I could go on and on and on about this subject but I want to admonish the saints of God that when the Pastor of your local assembly deems it necessary to “silence” an individual, we are not to point the finger. We are to go to that brother or sister, encourage them to come to church to get fed the Word of God and not shun them at all (that is, if they are truly repentive). We are to reach out to the weaker members of our church who are struggling with sins both inward and outward. It is our Godly mandate to pray for that person, to restore them back to their original place in God. To show them love and compassion. Quiet as its kept, you probably did the same thing they did, you just WERE NOT CAUGHT!

I agree with silencing because it tells the church that we are not playing games. We cannot tolerate sin from a professing Christian lest someone weaker falls into the same sin. The saying goes, one bad apple spoils the bunch. The church is a hospital for the sin sick soul not for someone who spews out poison amongst the Body of Christ. We don’t want other people to follow this persons erroneous example so we silence them (i.e. no singing on the choir, no leading prayer, no shouting, no participating in church) so that we don’t give the wrong message to the church. Under no circumstance are we to talk about the person, put them down and cause them to feel so low until they leave the church and continue in their sin. What if it was YOU? What if it was your MOTHER or FATHER? The Lord wants all to be saved not to be turned away. Church discipline is a must, but in the midst of church discipline, we the believer are to stand by our Pastors decision and uphold the person in prayer and work with them so that this sin never occurs again.

NOW SHUT YOUR MOUTH AND GET TO PRAYING!!!!!!!!!

Once Saved Always Saved!

My Sunday School Superintendent (Refuge Temple COOLJC Columbia, SC) did an excellent article on the “Once Saved Always Saved” Doctrine and I wanted to share it with my readers. Kudos to our beloved Deacon A. Stewart for doing such a great job in sharing complete scriptures as to why we DO NOT subscribe to the “Once Saved Always Saved” Doctrine.

Topic: Once Saved Always Saved 

During one Sunday School hour this topic came up and I want to give the class scriptural reference why the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ does not subscribe to this creed. This doctrine can be damnable, by giving one a sense of false hope while living a sinful life.  One must keep their vessel holy in order to make the rapture (I Thess. 4:7).  Believers must continue in holiness and mortify the deeds of the flesh daily (Gal. 5:24). Believers can not practice sin (I Jo. 3:4-8); this is living the life of the old man and expect to be saved (Ro. 6:1-2).  Believers are saved by faith through the grace of God and are to work out their own salvation.

There are three schools of thought in Christianity concerning soteriology (the study of the doctrine of salvation).

Calvism	Arminianism	Universalism
John Calvin (1509-1564)	Jacobus Arminius (1560-1609	Origen of Alexandria (185-254AD)
Churches: Presbyterian, many Baptist groups and Reform churches	Churches: Methodist, Holiness, Nazarene and Pentecostal	Churches: Unitarian Universalist Association, Christian Unitarians
Belief: God elects or predestine some people to be saved and those who are not predestined will never accept Christ, therefore they are destined for hell. Those that are elected for salvation will be saved before they die.	Belief: God does have people that are elected for salvation, yet He wants all men to be saved. Therefore, every man has a free will to accept or reject the gospel. Those who willingly accept Christ will be saved and those that reject Him will go to hell.	Belief: God is a loving and merciful God and through His grace no one will go to hell, whether or not they accept Christ as Savior.

  

We know that Universalism is false damnable doctrine.  The Bible clearly states that, “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15).”

Calvinism, eternal security or once saved always saved hold that it is impossible for a saved person to sin to the point that they will be lost eternally.  They use John 10: 28:30 to support their view. 

 John 10:28 [Amplified Bible]

“And I give them eternal life, and they shall never lost it or perish throughout the ages. [To all eternity they shall never by any means be destroyed.]  And no one is able to snatch them out of My hand.”

   

Eternal, everlasting life is given by Jesus only (Acts 4:12).  It is only through Christ Jesus we can be saved.  Those that accept His plan of salvation through repentance and the born again experience shall be saved (Mk 16:16, Jo. 3:5).  They are secure in their salvation because it is not based on man but on the promises of the Father.  It is based on the new covenant (Heb. 9:28).  Those that meet the requirements for everlasting life will never perish (John 3:16).  Salvation is conditional and you must meet  the conditions.  If you meet His conditions you will never be lost.  That is the assurance that the believer has in Christ. The saved believer must labor for that which leads to eternal life (John 6:27).  The conditions for eternal life includes: [1] coming to Christ, accepting and obeying the plan of salvation (John 6:27; Romans 1:5) [2] keep God’s commandments (Matthew 19:16-17) [3] sow to the Spirit and mortify the deeds of the flesh (Gal. 6:7-8) [4] living free from of sin (Romans 5:2) [5] love everybody (I John 3:14-15) [6] overcome temptations (James 1:12; Revelations 21:7) and [7] faithfulness to God (Revelations 2:10).  Saved people have eternal life only if the conditions are met.  They are in the Hand of God.  No one can take us out of the Hand of God, yet we can take ourselves right out of God’s Hands if we fail to walk in the principles of  godly faith.  If we backslide from God, turn our back on Him we will be lost, unless we repent (Rev. 2:5).

 Examples of those believers who are lost [note that they were no longer believers]:

1. Hymenaeus and Philetus see II Timothy 2:16-18 cf  I Timothy 1:18-20
2. Simon the Sorcerer see Acts 8:12-24
3. Judaizers see Galatians 5:1-7
4. King Saul see I Samuel 9:2;10:1-6;11:6;15:11,23-24

 How can a saved person lose their salvation?

1. Not abiding in the true vine. Read John 15:1-7 “If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cats them into the fire, and they are burned (vs. 6).”
2. Not continuing to run this Christian race. Read I Corinthians 9:24-27 “Bit I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway (vs 27).”
3. Being carnal minded. Read Romans 8:6-13 “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live (vs 13).”
4. Not remaining true to God. Read Hebrews 3:12-13 “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God (vs 13).”
5. A believer can become an apostate. Read Hebrews 6:1-9 “But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned (vs 8).”

 Can a name be blotted out (removed) out of the Lamb’s book of Life? Read Exodus 32:30-35. 

“And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book (Exodus 32:33).”

“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels (Revelations 3:5).”

“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire (Revelations 20:15).”

Being saved, born again, Spirited filled or a Christian is a life style.  It is a way of holiness and righteousness.  It is the believer conforming to the image of the Son of God, by the working of the indwelling Holy Spirit of Christ.  Sin separated us from God in the Garden of Eden and it still separates us from a Holy God. It is the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from all sin only if we confess our sins.  Sin is what hinders man from a Holy God. “And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man… (Genesis 6:3).”

Read 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

International Congress Updates & Information 01/2008

23rd Annual Stellar Award Winners (2008)

  23rd Annual Stellar Award Winners (2008)
The results from the 23rd Annual Stellar Awards were announced on January 12, 2008 from the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. Hosted by Kirk Franklin, Byron Cage and CeCe Winans, the televised event was highlighted by multiple performances, including songs from DeWayne Woods, Kirk Franklin, Ricky Dillard and New G, Beverly Crawford, The Rance Allen Group and J. Moss. Complete listings of the official nominees, with winners in yellow text, are presented below for all categories:

(To send this nomination list to a friend, CLICK HERE)

Artist of the Year

Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity

J Moss; V2… ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Smokie Norful; Life Changing ; EMI Gospel

The Clark Sisters; Live – One Last Time; EMI Gospel

Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba Song of the Year (Songwriter; Song; Label)

Karen Clark Sheard ; “Blessed & Highly Favored”; EMI Gospel

Evangelist Betty J. Wright and Rev. Timothy Wright; “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus”; JEG

PJ Morton; “Let Go “; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba

Kurt Carr; “Still Standing”; Light Records/ Tehillah

Percy Bady; “Um Good”; EMI GospelChoir of the Year

Darius Brooks Presents, The Reunion Live in Chicago – Side A (featuring former members of the Thompson Community Singers) ; Journey Music Group

Wilmington Chester Mass Choir; It’s Not Over; Emtro Gospel

Bishop T.D. Jakes & The Potter’s House Mass Choir; Live in Kenya, Grace: The Kenya Experience ; Dexterity Records/ Rhino

Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise; Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise, Live! ; R.O.U. Records

Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog Records Producer of the Year

Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity

Kurt Carr, Tramaine Hawkins; I Never Lost My Praise – Live;Gospo Centric/ Zomba

David Mann & Tamela Mann; Tamela Mann – The Live Experience; TillyMan Music

Donald Lawrence, The Clark Sisters; Live – One Last Time; EMI Gospel

Kelly Price & H.R. Crump, Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am ; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba Group or Duo of the Year

The McClurkin Project; We Praise You; Gospo Centric/ Zomba

The Clark Sisters; Live – One Last Time; EMI Gospel

The Mighty Clouds of Joy; Movin’ ; EMI Gospel

The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot RecordsNew Artist of the Year

Group 1 Crew; Group 1 Crew; Fervent Records/ Curb Records/ WB

Antwaun Stanley; I Can do Anything ; Bajada Records/ Lightyear

Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog Records

DeWayne Woods; Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba

Bishop Nathaniel Bond and The Ensemble; A Message of Faith ; Miracle 4 LifeMale Vocalist of the Year

Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity

DeWayne Woods; Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ Zomba

J Moss; V2… ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Troy Sneed; In HIS Presence; Emtro Gospel

William H. Murphy; Live in Atlanta, The Sound…Another William Murphy Project;; Music Group Female Vocalist of the Year

Vanessa Bell Armstrong; Walking Miracle; EMI Gospel

Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise – Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba

Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba

Tamela Mann; The Live Experience ; TillyMann MusicContemporary Group/Duo of the Year

Kenny Lattimore & Chante’ Moore; Uncovered Covered; LaFace Records/ Verity/ Zomba

PAJAM Presents 21:03; Twenty One O Three; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Verity/ Zomba

The McClurkin Project; We Praise You; Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Zie’l; Genesis; Light Records/Gospel Warehouse RecordsCD of the Year

J Moss; V2… ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise – Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba

Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba

The Clark Sisters; Live – One Last Time; EMI Gospel

The Caravans; Paved The Way; MalacoTraditional Group/Duo of the Year

The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot Records

The Clark Sisters; Live – One Last Time; EMI Gospel

The Caravans; Paved The Way; Malaco

The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot Records

Alvin Darling & Celebration; My Blessing Is On The Way; Emtro GospelContemporary Male of the Year

Deitrick Haddon; 7 Days; Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba

Dave Hollister; The Book of David: Vol. 1 The Transition; Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Fred Hammond; Free To Worship; Verity

Smokie Norful; Life Changing ; EMI Gospel

Micah Stampley; A Fresh Wind; The Second Sound ; Levitical Records Traditional Male of the Year

Bishop Paul S. Morton; Still Standing; Light Records/ Tehillah

Rev. Timothy Wright; Jesus, Jesus, Jesus; Koch Records/Jordan Entertainment/ MQM Records

Alvin Darling; My Blessing Is On The Way; Emtro Gospel

Norman Hutchins; Where I Long To Be; JDI Records

Richard Smallwood; Journey: Live In New York; Verity/ ZombaContemporary Female of the Year

Coko; Grateful; Light Records

Tamela Mann; The Live Experience ; TillyMann Music

Shirley Murdock; Soulfood ; Tyscot Records

Vickie Winans; Woman To Woman; Verity / Zomba

Maurette Brown Clark; The Dream; AIR Gospel / MalacoTraditional Female of the Year

Nikki Ross; Vol. 1 Touch: The Pastor Rudy Experience; Music World

Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise – Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba

Lemmie Battles;You’re Looking At A Miracle LIVE; New Haven Records

Candi Staton;The Ultimate Gospel Collection; Shanachie Ent. Corp.

Prenestine Williams-Porter;Motor City Praise Records presents World Wide God; Motor City Praise Contemporary CD of the Year

Shirley Murdock; Soulfood ; Tyscot Records

Sound of the New Breed; Freedom ; Integrity Gospel / Newbreed

Kelly Price; This Is Who I Am ; EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Deitrick Haddon; 7 Days; Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba

J Moss; V2… ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ ZombaTraditional CD of the Year

Tramaine Hawkins;I Never Lost My Praise – Live; Gospo Centric / Zomba

The Anointed Pace Sisters; Return; Tyscot Records

Bishop Paul S. Morton; Still Standing; Light Records/ Tehillah

The Caravans; Paved The Way; Malaco

The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot RecordsUrban/ Inspirational Single / Performance of the Year (Artist; Song; Label)

Kelly Price; “Healing” EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

J Moss; “I’m Not Perfect” PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Deitrick Haddon; “Heaven ” Tyscot/ Verity/ Zomba

Kirk Franklin; “Look At Me Now ” Fo Yo Soul/Gospo Centric/Zomba

DeWayne Woods; “Let Go” Quiet Water/ Verity/ ZombaTraditional Choir of the Year

Darius Brooks Presents, The Reunion Live in Chicago – Side A (featuring former members of the Thompson Community Singers) ; Journey Music Group

Wilmington Chester Mass Choir; It’s Not Over; Emtro Gospel

Bishop T.D. Jakes & The Potter’s House Mass Choir; Live in Kenya, Grace: The Kenya Experience ; Dexterity Records/ Rhino

Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir; Welcome to the City ; Tyscot Records/Alpha Dog RecordsContemporary Choir of the Year

Joshua’s Troop LIVE JT3; New Haven Records

Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise; Isaiah Thomas and the Elements of Praise, Live! ; R.O.U. Records

L. Spenser Smith & Testament; Statement: The Assignment Continues…; Emtro GospelInstrumental CD of the Year

The Craig Crawford Players; I’ll Be With You ; Life Jam Records

Syreeta Thompson; Gabriel’s Praise ; Blow Your Horn Girl Publishing

Lionel Jones; Papa Jones; Color Code Purple Productions, Inc.

Ben Tankard; Let’s Get Quiet: The Smooth Jazz Experience ; Verity/ Zomba Special Event CD of the Year

Various Artists; A Christmas To Remember ; EMI Gospel

Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin Presents Songs For The Storm Volume 1; Fo Yo Soul/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Mary Alessi & Friends; When Women Worship ; Miami Life Sounds Records

Various; Blackberry Records presents Wedding Songs ; Blackberry Records

Yolanda Adams; Yolanda Adams, The Best of Me ; Atlantic / WeaRap/Hip Hop Gospel CD of the Year

The Cross Movement; HIStory: Our Place in HIS Story ; Cross Movement Records

Joe L. Da Vessel; Testimony: 1 Lyrics 4 Life ; D.A.A.S. What’s Up Entertainment

Pettidee; Resurrections…Past, Present, and Future… ; Sony/ BMG/ Soldier Sound Records

PAJAM Presents 21:03; Twenty One O Three; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Verity/ Zomba

Various; BG Records Presents Gospel Skate Jams Vol. 2; BG RecordsChildren’s Performance of the Year

Eva Sabiniano; Born To Praise; Pacific Studios

Kaira Miller; My Everything ; Vine Life Productions

The First Coast Children’s Choir; Let The Children Sing! Volume IV Give an Applause!; Spirit of Life Records

Jada Simone Clark; Maurette Brown Clark’s The Dream; AIR Gospel / Malaco RecordsQuartet of the Year

7 Sons of Soul; Witness; Verity/ Zomba/ Soul World

The Mighty Clouds of Joy; Movin’ ; EMI Gospel

The Rance Allen Group; Closest Friend; Tyscot Records

Slim & The Supreme Angels; The Judgement; Malaco Records

Pilgrim Jubilee Singers; Jesus Got Me Off; Malaco RecordsMusic Video of the Year (artist, song/CD title, label)

Jimmy Hicks & The Voices of Integrity featuring The Levites Born Blessed; Worldwide Music

J.Moss: “Operator”; V2… ; PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Shirley Murdock: “I Love Me Better Than That”; Soulfood; Tyscot Records

Vickie Winans: “The Rainbow”; Vickie Winans’ Classic Gold Video Collection; Destiny Joy

Antwaun Stanley: “Teach Me”; I Can Do Anything; Bajada Records Recorded Music Package of the Year [art credit / album (artist) / label]

Sean M. Kinney (art direction and design); Ronald Cadiz (photography); V2… (J.Moss); PAJAM/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Denise Trotman (art direction and design); Ronald Cadiz (photography); Woman To Woman: Songs of Life (Vickie Winans); Verity/ Zomba

Nicola Goode (photography); Welcome to the City (Bishop Noel Jones Presents The City of Refuge Sanctuary Choir) ; Tyscot Records/ Alpha Dog Records

Anita Boriboon & Michelle Lukianovich (art direction and design); Kwaku Alston (photography); This Is Who I Am (Kelly Price); EcclectiSounds Entertainment/ Gospo Centric/ Zomba

Sean M. Kinney (art direction); Ronald Cadiz (photography); Introducing DeWayne Woods & When Singers Meet; Quiet Water/ Verity/ ZombaPraise and Worship CD of the Year

Marcus Cole; Write My Song; PureSprings/ EMI Gospel/ Riverphlo

Micah Stampley; A Fresh Wind; The Second Sound ; Levitical Records

Troy Sneed; In HIS Presence; Emtro Gospel

Stephen Hurd; My Destiny; Integrity

Maurette Brown Clark; The Dream; AIR Gospel / Malaco

Bishop C.E. White – LIVE HOLY !

10 Year Old Gerald Campbell of Mt. Carmel Church in Atlanta, GA

 

How befitting of a song to start the new year off with a reminder that this battle is not yours but its the Lord. Hold your horses saints of God. This boy can saaannnggg! Now this was back in 1998 and he (Gerald Campbell) was 10 years old at the time which would mean that he should be turning 20 years old now. The Pope Of Pentecost wants this site to be for all ages so this year I also would like to start featuring children and young adults who also know how to give God praise just like us adults do. Be blessed!

Modesty – More Than Just a Standard

        

Modesty

Holiness involves both the inner man and the outer man (I Corinthians 6:19-20; I Thessalonians 5:23). We must perfect holiness by cleansing ourselves of filthiness both of the flesh and of the spirit (II Corinthians 7:1). For example, lustful thoughts are as sinful as an act of adultery(Matthew 5:27-28), and hatred is just as sinful as murder (I John 3:15). Holiness, then, includes attitudes, thoughts, and spiritual stewardship on the one hand and actions, appearance, and physical stewardship on the other. One without the other is insufficient. Inward holiness will produce outward holiness, but the outward appearance of holiness is worthless without inward holiness. For example, a modest spirit will produce modest dress, but modest dress is of little value if it conceals a lustful heart. Holiness or sanctification is not a means of earning salvation but a result of salvation. As such, it comes by grace through faith. Holiness cannot be manufactured bywords of the flesh but must come as we submit to the leadership and control of the Holy Spirit. We are holy in a twofold sense. On the one hand, we receive an immediate sanctification (separation from sin) through the death of Christ when we are baptized in Jesus’ name and filled with the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews10:10). God counts us holy by imputing Christ’s righteousness to us. On the other hand, we must follow after and seek holiness (Hebrews 12:14). We must strive after holiness and receive the progressive work of sanctification. We are already sanctified, but we are also called to be saints (sanctified, holy ones) (I Corinthians 1:2). The Scriptures Decree Modesty in Dress Included in this article: • Introduction• New Testament Teaching for Women• Distinction Between Male and Female• Scriptural Guidelines Summarized Introduction In ancient times, as throughout many countries today, a person’s social rank could be determined by his dress. Similarly, dress is a significant measurement of Christian conduct and practice. Christians can often by identified as such by their outward appearance. Our people predicate their practices and beliefs upon the Bible. In baptism, we practice immersion in the name of Jesus as the apostles did. We teach and preach the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a definite experience evidenced by speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. Since we adhere as carefully and closely to the Scriptures as possible in matters pertaining to salvation, we also measure the standards of Christian practicalities such as clothing, by the same rule. New Testament Teaching for Women The New Testament makes several specific statements pertaining to women’s dress in the epistles of Paul and Peter. “I will that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works” (1 Timothy 2:8-10). “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands” (I Peter 3:1-5). Paul admonished women to dress according to certain standards and listed them in this order: modesty, inexpensive and nonornamental attire, and clothing that becomes godliness. To be modest means to be decent and respectful. The apostolic Christian woman seeks to emulate all the fine virtues of Christian womanhood, so she carefully and prayerfully selects her attire in order not to unduly expose her body to the stares of the public. She is not so old-fashioned as to look like a monstrosity, but she is deliberately methodical in choosing clothing that will dignify her womanhood without provoking the stares of the opposite sex. She has dedicated herself to the cause of Christianity. This manner of dedication avoids expensive, extravagant clothing and superfluous, ornamental jewelry, permitting only the functional use of a wristwatch and a wedding band to designate her wedlock. The great needs of Christian evangelism and charitable assistance to the poor demand that she deny herself the exorbitant tastes of expensive fads so that she might practice the Christian art of concern for others. In this manner, she professes a godliness that stems from a heartfelt desire for virtuous, holy living. Her hair style is again predicated upon the Word of God, which teaches her to let her hair grow uncut: “Is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering” (I Corinthians 11:13-15). Against this picture of scriptural womanhood, we have the worldly female of today who tries by every conceivable means, it seems, to flirt with the hazards of indecency. Costumes and apparel that are inclined toward nudity are sought after intensely. The results are demonstrated in a wanton display of seminude parades on our public streets. Many authorities agree that this concentration on exposure of the body has contributed greatly to the serious problems of immorality that threaten the basic foundations of our homes and families. It has also been a cause in inviting serious sexual atrocities. The worldly woman also makes a hobby of fashion crazes and style shows. She sets up a contest with her neighbors as to who owns the most expensive jewelry, who wears the latest clothes, and who has traveled the farthest to buy the latest creation. It makes for an interesting discussion over a cocktail, but it does not alleviate the serious problems and needs of a reeling world, which Christians are called upon to address with a Christ-like zeal to help desperate souls, both by their means and their consecration. Distinction Between Male and Female Moreover, the Scriptures teach a great difference between femininity and masculinity as to dress. “The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God” (Deuteronomy 22:5). The desire to emulate men in dress has seriously affected the fine and noble characteristics of womanhood. Often it takes a second glance to determine the sex of a woman today, due to the distorted and strange garb she wears and the close proximity of her attire to that of a man. The Scriptures call this practice an abomination unto God, or something God hates. Perhaps some will say this standard has changed due to the inception of the age of grace introduced by Jesus Christ. But this verse deals with moral law and with the nature of God, which never change, not with a ceremonial ritual fulfilled by Christ. Moreover, when the Apostle Peter wished to instruct Christian women about proper conduct, he used Sarah, the wife of Abraham, as his example (I Peter 3:5). Thus, we are not out of order in this instance to use a verse of Scripture from the law. We rightfully go back over the years and learn a spiritual lesson that sharply rebukes the customs and practices of our day. Scriptural Guidelines Summarized Holy women of old concentrated on adorning their spiritual life by developing the character of the heart. This is the major concentration and beautification of the Christian woman. Thus, the Apostle Peter used the great dedication of women of another age to impress the women of the first century with the need for the ornament or adornment of a meek and quiet spirit. By the same token, we are within reasonable and scriptural rights to insist that Christian women today heed the influential, sensible, and divinely inspired advice of the apostles. Here are the biblical guidelines concerning Christian example in dress for women. 1. Modesty 2. Moderation in cost. 3. Inclination toward godliness (decency). 4. Avoidance of outward adornment. 5. Shamefacedness and sobriety. 6. Distinction between male and female. Guidelines for Men The New Testament does not provide instructions expressly for men’s clothing. Apparently immodest dress was not as much of a problem for men in those days, even though it often is today. However, in many instances it may well be said, “What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” The trend to indecent exposure is even having an impression on the male sex today. Comfort seems to be the overall objective instead of a cautious, considerate thought for decorum and dignity. But comfort can be achieved without some of the ridiculous, outlandish costumes now being displayed on our busy avenues. We can honestly proclaim that the basic principles of godly appearance that apply to Christian women should also apply to men; namely, modesty, moderation, decency, elimination of ornamentation and costly finery, and distinction between male and female in hair and dress.

The Pope Of Pentecost Wants To Hear From YOU!

THE POPE OF PENTECOST WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU!

TAKE SOME TIME TO DROP ME A COMMENT OR SUGGESTION FOR 2008!

Pentecostal Humor

PENTECOSTAL HUMOR

(now this was funny)

The local news station was interviewing an 80-year-old lady because she had just gotten married — for the fourth time. The interviewer asked her questions about her life, about what it felt like to be marrying again at 80, and then about her new husband’s occupation. ‘He’s a funeral director,’ she answered. ‘Interesting,’ the newsman thought. He then asked her if she wouldn’t mind telling him a little about her first three husbands and what they did for a living. She paused for a few moments, needing time to reflect on all those years. After a short time, a smile came to her face and she answered proudly, explaining that she’d first married a banker when she was in her early 20’s, then a circus ringmaster when in her 40’s, later on a preacher when in her 60’s, and now in her 80’s, a funeral director. The interviewer looked at her, quite astonished, and asked why she had married four men with such diverse careers. She smiled and explained, ‘I married one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, and four to go.

MEN and EARRINGS IN THE CHURCH ! ? ! ? !

Uh, when did it become socially acceptable for MEN to wear earrings in church or period? Saints, it is still holiness or hell and I am sick and tired of the MEN who are the HEAD turning to BET and VH1 and MTV looking for the latest fads to drag into the church. There needs to be a difference between holy and un-holy and its high time someone speak out against this.

Men of GOD, you are the HEAD and not the TAIL. When you put those earrings on, you are clearly saying to GOD and your fellow church mates that you choose to be a SLAVE to SIN instead of being FREE in CHRIST JESUS! You are a ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, a PECULIAR PEOPLE and a CHOSEN GENERATION. We as believers must understand that we don’t follow the ways of the world even though we are living in the world. The CHRISTIAN stand for HOLINESS has not changed! Male Gospel artist would have you to believe that its OK to wear earrings and still serve God. NOT SO! The devil is a liar and you need to give him back those earrings to fuel the fires of hell! DO NOT BE FOOLED! YOU ARE NOT SAVED I repeat, YOU ARE NOT SAVED if you are easily swayed by the cultures and current fads of the world to the point were you adopt them in your every day lives! JESUS gives LIFE, SATAN gives DEATH! It hurts me when I see young fellas coming boldly to church with earrings in their ear, bending down at God’s Holy Altar and taking communion all to leave the church parking lot in search of their next hook up, their next scheme, their next quick worldly fix. You ought to be so glad we don’t serve the OLD TESTAMENT GOD anymore because if we did, we would all be on our way straight to HELL, BUT GOD!

Understand this, there is no way to sugar coat this. Choose ye this day whom you will serve. Will it be GOD or will it be the ways of the WORLD! As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD! YA HEAR! THE LORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would be doing you a disservice if I did not tell you the truth. Its time for a BLOOD BATH (the Blood of JESUS)! YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN! Wash yourselves with the Blood of the Lamb! Brothers I love you, I want you to be strong holy men of God (not weak hip hop culture followers). BE A LEADER and not a follower. We are suppose to be a beacon of LIGHT in the midst of darkness. Instead, your bringing darkness into God’s Holy Tabernacle!

MEN, lets stop the lip service and start living the life! I cant say it no other way. With your lips you say I love you. With your feet you dance and shout but your lifestyle does not add up to any of the “worship” you do in church. Brent Jones, Deitrick Haddon and Donald Lawrence your great song writers, why not start living the life you WRITE about instead of appearing like the World. The world does not want to be saved because the church resembles the world. Your on the choir, you sit in the pulpits, you attend Sunday school, you usher in them as if its ok and our Pastors are not saying anything about it out of fear!

Before I close, lets go to the scriptures to see what earrings really are all about.

God’s Word does mention earrings worn by men in several places, but they ALL involve God’s servants telling people to remove or give up earrings. See Genesis 35:4; Exodus 35:22; Numbers 31:50; and Judges 8:24-26. Also, recall the story of the golden calf (Exodus 32). Aaron fashioned it out of the Israelites’ earrings—including the men’s (vs. 2-4). In this account, idolatry is linked to earring-wearing!

Interestingly, the Bible does talk about men having their ears pierced, but it is not desirable. Notice: “And it shall be, if he say unto you, I will not go away from you; because he loves you and your house, because he is well with you; then you shall take an awl, and thrust it through his ear unto the door, and he shall be your servant forever…” (Deut. 15:16-17; also Ex. 21:5-6). In ancient Israel, a slave (“servant”) who wished to remain with his master had his ear pierced. Certainly no one today wishes to be an indentured servant!

It should now be clear that God condemns earrings for men. It is a sign of unmanliness, rebellion, vanity and worldliness—and even idolatry and slavery!

Winter 2008 Music Review – Kirk Franklin

THE FIGHT OF MY LIFE

(in stores now)

One day when my Internet service provider was down, I went to the public library to check my email and of course, update my blog, all of a sudden I heard from the headsets in front of me this slamming song. The dude kept the song on repeat. Over and over I heard the words THIS IS IT! I had no clue that back in December 2007 Kirk had came out with another album. When I tell you this album is HOTTTTTT you gotta buy it!

Popes Hot Track Picks:

Declaration (This Is It!)  (5 Stars)

It Would Take All Day (5 Stars)

The Last Jesus (5 Stars)

How It Used To Be (5 Stars)

Popes NOT Factor:

Jesus! (2 Stars way too kiddie for me)

I Am God – (with TobyMac) (A Complete DISASTER..ZERO STARS and uh wasup with him saying “I’m gonna get my white boy on, uh, do whites say I’m going to get my black boy on…ugh!)

 

Kirk Franklin
Overview: The Fight of My Life

Before the arrival of Kirk Franklin in 1993, contemporary gospel music leaned toward inspirational quiet storm —’positive’ messages alluding to Jesus and a righteous walk of faith set to lightly groovin’ tracks that appealed primarily to adults.

Upon the arrival of Kirk Franklin, the music and the culture of contemporary Christianity got an energy boost that could give Red Bull a run for its money!

Injecting a vigorous and youthful excitement to faith-walking, Kirk Franklin made it cool to be Christian, placing Godly messages in the same heavy rotation as other urban pop music. Over the last 14 years with hits such as “Stomp;” “Whatcha Lookin’ For;” “Looking for You;” “Revolution;” and “Lean on Me,” Kirk ascended to the upper echelons of gospel and pop. Beyond the music, he’s a highly exalted example of a man who achieved success without selling his soul (literally or figuratively) or his integrity. His messages now inhabit books, an upcoming movie, and he even hosts his own BET talent search program, “Sunday Best.”

Grammy-winning, multi-platinum, crossover gospel king Kirk Franklin is a man accustomed to firsts. For example, he was the first gospel artist to sell over a million copies of his first album, Kirk Franklin & The Family. However, it was the first of a different kind that led him to title his 11th and latest CD The Fight of My Life (read album review). It marked the first time that Kirk ever had so much trouble bringing his divinely inspired songs to life… for Kirk was facing an artistic drought the likes of which had never plagued him before. The album was originally supposed to be the soundtrack for the motion picture “Church Boy,” a story loosely based on Franklin’s life story struggles and triumphs – of the Forth Worth, TX-born gospel star who, against all odds, made a way out of no way. But when shooting for the film was abruptly postponed, the rug was pulled out from under Franklin, affecting not only his life but that of his family and his ministry. “I titled this album The Fight of My Life because that’s precisely what I was in,” he says, still shaken by the circumstance. “I had scheduled two months to devote to that movie. Now that schedule had a giant hole in it leaving me without a Plan B – no vision, no direction – which immediately meant financial challenges for me and my people.”

This uncharacteristic stress also upset the natural order of Franklin’s creative process. “When I do albums, I usually feel ‘pregnant’ with ideas. God would give me pieces of a concept — the theme of an album — then songs would be born from that. This time I felt empty. God was very silent at the genesis of this record… I had singers and musicians flying in ready to work and I wasn’t, which was very costly… and it happened twice! The second time they came, I only had two songs completed: ‘How it Used to Be’ (a song about coming back to Jesus after having been absent awhile) and ‘Hide Me’ (a song of restored faith on which he states, ‘Your delay is not a denial / Your plan is perfect when I’m not’). I was discouraged and depressed. I began to question whether I should do another album, whether I had another one in me…whether I should call McDonald’s to see if they were hiring?!”

Thankfully, brother Franklin’s righteously terrifying ‘Mac Tonight-mares’ finally came to a halt in what felt like his most desperate hour. The empathetic artist who was always ready with that perfect musical word to uplift others was now the one in need of inspiration. “One day walking the streets of my neighborhood,” Kirk continues, “I cried out to The Lord, ‘Help!’ And some way out of my darkness, God started giving me the idea for the song ‘Help Me Believe.’ And from there, the songs slowly started flowing down the tunnel to me again.”

Those songs which now make up The Fight of My Life (the second album from Kirk Franklin’s own Fo Yo Soul Entertainment company – a joint venture with the Zomba label group) are some of the most dynamic and stylistically varied of his storied career, moving from spirited choral passages and jazz-kissed pieces to his signature hip hop praise grooves and even one head-banging rocker! As with all of his past milestones, the thread that holds together The Fight of My Life (written, produced and arranged by Kirk Franklin) is its powerful spiritual messages.

The first single is a burst of affirmative energy titled “Declaration (This is It),” a thrilling gospel-soul take-off on the 1979 hit “This is It” by pop-rock superstar Kenny Loggins (who co-wrote the original with Michael McDonald). “As a kid, I really enjoyed that song,” Kirk shares. “When I started recording it, one of the owners of the studio stopped by, heard what I was doing and told me, ‘You know Kenny Loggins wrote that song for his daddy when he was diagnosed with cancer.’ I was floored! I could see why it connected so strong to me. It was born from something powerful. What I’m saying in my version is because we are God’s children and have His Son living inside of us, there’s a lot of junk ‘in the world’ to which we allow ourselves to fall victim. But by the power of Christ we don’t have to. The song empowers people in their faith.”

Another album highlight, “Little Boy,” finds Kirk calling in reinforcement from the great Rance Allen and Isaac Carree to kick a three-prong message to young men, young women and their parents that is graced with a simmering beat, tasty acoustic guitar and muted trumpet, plus a couple of witty topical lyrical ‘zingers.’ “I’m just challenging everybody to do better,” Kirk states. “Christians become a ’subculture’ when we are no longer informed on current issues. It’s imperative that God’s people be effective and knowledgeable. If we’re in a bubble, we come across as antiquated.” Regarding those lyrical bombs he drops, Kirk volleys, “I say what I feel and let it fall where it may. `Cuz when something falls that is God-ordained, it falls right!”

Several songs are targeted toward young people. The first, “I Like Me,” is a percussive pastiche. featuring Christian rapper Da’ T.R.U.T.H. “When you’re trying to preach to kids, you’ve got to speak their language,” Kirk says. “Kids like beats… so I had to drop some like they was hot!” The second song is simply titled “Jesus.” Kirk tailor-made it for the BET crowd and hopes they’ll call radio stations to request it. Similarly, “Still in Love” is a weekend roller skatin’, top-down cruiser’s dream. “I’m always striving to make us look cool in the culture,” Kirk shrugs.

Perhaps most impressive is “A Whole Nation,” a song about young men growing up without fathers which introduces galvanizing 11 year-old newcomer Donovan Owens. “He just rolled up on me backstage at an Easter concert in Milwaukee,” Kirk confesses, “singing one of my songs! People come up to me all the time, but not like Donovan. This kid could sing! I had to have him on my album. Sometimes God gives me snapshots of a song and this snapshot was of Donovan being the voice of a little Kirk. But I had to test him first, so I called and asked him about his relationship with his father. I needed him to sing this song from a place of honesty. When I saw that he could do that, I said, ‘Here we go!’”

“I Am God” features Kirk’s frequent collaborator, Christian rocker TobyMac. “TobyMac is the one in that Contemporary Christian Music world that I have the closest relationship with,” Kirk states. “He’s halfway black and I’m halfway white, so we’ve got that special thing goin’ on… been friends for about 12 years now. This is my first rock song that I feel I got the closest to right because I used real rock players. I taught the song to TobyMac’s band.”

With all the contemporary amenities covered, Kirk still delivers some of his most awe-inspired songs of comfort and reassurance ever with “Still (In Control)” (featuring Melvin & Doug Williams, a.k.a. The Williams Brothers); “It Would Take All Day;” “Chains” (featuring singers Melonie Daniels, Sheri Jones-Moffett and gospel marvel Nikki Ross); “Hide Me” and “He Will Supply.” Most profound is the album closer “The Last Jesus” which – after all of the spiritual fortification and nurturing of the songs before it – turns the table and challenges the listener to strive to reflect God’s will and Jesus’ mission. Over a soothing acoustic music bed (including poignant whistling on the outro), the phenomenal chorus reads, “If I say I love Jesus / But you can’t see my Jesus / My words are empty / If they can’t see Jesus in me / No more excuses / I give myself away / Because I may be the only Jesus they see today…”

Reflecting on this exceptional collection, Kirk muses, “These are things that I feel every day. People need honest transparent leadership – leaders who are not afraid to admit, ‘I’m jacked up’ or ‘I made a mistake, only follow me as I follow Christ.’ So it’s important to me that the culture sees that there is a large community of God’s people in entertainment, political and sports arenas striving for a level of Godly excellence that makes The Father happy.”

The Lord has blessed Kirk Franklin to be not only a commercial success – the biggest selling gospel artist in Soundscan history with over12 million albums sold and over 20 #1 singles at Gospel radio, plus 5 Grammy Awards; an American Music Award; 34 Stellar Awards (gospel); 12 Dove Awards (CCM); 4 NAACP Awards; 2 BET Music Awards, and a Soul Train Award on his mantle – he is a hero and example to anyone who thinks their life is beyond redemption. To hear his testimony is to hear that of a man who’s risen from the bleakest streets to the highest heights. Deeper still, he understands that the literal fight of his life is a battle done daily.

“For me success is very personal,” Kirk concludes. “This January (2008), I will have been married 12 years. I have kids that know me and love me. I’m not only married I’m happily married (check the verse in “I Like Me” where he speaks on that)! I’m a Black man in my 30s still hungry for The Lord and still hungry for God to knock down the stuff I see in me that still ain’t right. That’s the thinking I choose to keep in close contact with in terms of how I define ’success.’ I’ve been working on me – and there’s a lot more work to be done.”

Spoken by a man as accomplished as Kirk Franklin, that statement challenged us all. And his latest masterwork, The Fight of My Life, will be the stirring soundtrack for winning the fights of our lives.

Pre-Congress Concert

Sunday Rhema: Do You Love Jesus?

I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth! What an awesome Sunday it was today at the Temple! From Sunday School all the way down to the preached Word and then communion. This Sunday, our Bishop is home with us. I wanted to share with everyone the mighty Word that came through the Temple. It was a short and simple yet profound message that will cause one to truly question how much they love Jesus! Aight, now get your Bibles and lets go to the Word of God!

John 21:15-17 says “¹⁵So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

   ¹⁶He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

   ¹⁷He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”

Jesus asked Simon if He loved Him! Not once, not twice but 3 times. Each time, Simon replied YES LORD I Love YOU! Jesus then commanded Him to feed his sheep. Understand that our love for God should surpass simple “lip service” but we should be able to show our love for God by the actions that we do towards Him and His Sheep! In this instance, Jesus was literally preparing Simon (who’s name was also Simon Peter) for the greatest commission of them all, to love GOD and then your fellow Man. This simple message is two fold. We can show our love for Christ by a) telling Him that we love Him and b) being a servant of the Lord by telling others about the Love of Christ.

Since we have all established that 2008 Shall Be Great, let us all constantly tell the Lord Jesus how much we love Him in WORD and in DEED! Today, after reading this blog, go tell someone about the Love of Christ. I learned in Sunday school that we all need a BLOOD BATH! We need to consistently be washed by the Blood of Christ so that we can be cleansed from all filth. How awful it would be to take this bath alone. Why don’t you share with someone today your testimony of how God’s love for ALL extends way beyond the cross of Calvary, it literally extends into 2008. He shows us His love by giving us GRACE and MERCY. If he never did anything else, He has already done enough. Its high time that we that know the truth begin to FEED GOD’S SHEEP! Let this year be about soul winning. Bring someone to church with you the next time you “enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with Praise”

Truly, 2008 shall be great, but it will be greater if we exhibit the love of Christ to all. Be blessed in this upcoming week. (And now, I must go and lay down as I shouted myself AS USUAL into a frenzy and my feet are swollen with PRAISE lol lol lol lol).