What is the biblical approach to music in the church and in the life of the Christian? And why does it matter to the Holy Spirit?

What is the biblical approach to music in the church and in the life of the Christian?  And why does it matter to the Holy Spirit?  Unfortunately, many churches are in a state of ignorance when it comes to music.  Music is one of the primary areas of church ministry that has done more to grieve the Holy Spirit than any other.  Primarily because, much of church music is anchored in worldly methodology that is ambitiously predatory in nature for emotionalism.

Throughout the New Testament as well as the Old, biblical music and singing is vocal, joyful and respectful to God and finds its origin with God (Exodus 15:1,21; Acts 16:26;  Rev. 5:9). The use of a concordance to find verses that contain the words: “song,” “singers” and “singing,” will confirm that God has purpose in music.

Notice particularly the special assignments given to singers and the special provision for singers in 2 Chronicles and Nehemiah. God also uses trumpets, harps, and other musical instruments for His purpose.

Satan also instigates the use of music amongst God’s people to enhance his deceitful influence.  Obviously, he has accomplished his agenda amongst many well intended Christians. Particularly, we see a weak endeavor to know what kind of music comes from the heart of God and what derives from the mind of Satan and little desire to discern the difference.

The music pattern and methodology of your church is very revealing about the intent and motive that drives that ministry. The fact is: what motivates us, conforms us, thus, methodology is conceived.  For many Churches, the devil has a manipulating strong hold in the area of music that is emotionally driven.  Churches across all denominational lines have been seduced to a false and vain obligation to provide a non-convicting environment through the use of musical enhancement and entertainment.  This is most noticeable amongst churches that favor contemporary methodology where more often than not, a musicians sincerity is mistaken for spirituality worthy of praise.Discerning believers know and understand that the Bible  teaches and requires a very obvious contrast to worldly methodology of music.  Godly music is most noticeably holy, doctrinal, and reverent in mannerism… and totally unlike the appeal, apparel, and appearance of worldly music.  This is a matter of fact.

Charles Spurgeon, the great English Baptist preacher, declared with conviction:

“The devil has seldom done a cleverer thing than hinting to the Church that part of their mission is to provide entertainment for the people, with a view to winning them… providing amusement for the people is nowhere spoken of in the Scriptures as a function of the Church…The need is biblical doctrine, so understood and felt that it sets men of fire.”

The character of Biblically based music is distinctly different in its origin and purpose.  Biblical music and its methodology is sacred, not seductive.  It is not intended to draw the world… it is separate from the world.  Unlike biblical music, worldly methodology in music with religion sprinkled on it, is at its core a predator for the emotion of the vulnerable and carnal believer… while biblical based methodology in music compels devotion to the one and only true God… The Lord Jesus Christ (Col. 3;16). Amen!

Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger    

College of the Open Bible

James Hall presents WAP new era cd titled “KING”

What we knew as the sound of Professor James Hall and Worship and Praise is now revealed through their new CD, WAP NEW ERA, as the elevated version of gospel music mastery. NEW ERA is Prof. Hall’s intimate interpretation of the art.  With an adroitness of musicianship, he takes a short hiatus from the Live Stage to commune in the sanctuary of the Studio, creating a multi-flavorful connection of music.  It delivers on all genres of composition, from the traditional tunes such as James Hall Hymn Medley to cutting edge gospel.  ‘King’ unveils a James-Hall-Newness, while other tracks like Sovereign and Only Jesus are true-form to WAP, giving us range-leaping vibratos and praise-reaching staccatos.

NEW ERA truly evokes your hands to raise or your desire to be saved…either way, the anointing WILL move you. From lone listeners to psalmists to musicians, prayerfully listen and allow it to minister to you, that you might glean from it to inspire
your own.  We are thrilled to share, this our new success, with you.

ROMA DOWNEY AND MARK BURNETT EXECUTIVE PRODUCING NEW FAITH-BASED FOOTBALL FILM WOODLAWN IN THEATERS OCT. 16, 2015

Serving as Executive Producers on new Erwin Brothers Film

 produced by Kevin Downes and distributed by Pure Flix.  

 LOS ANGELES, Calif., (Sept. 23, 2015) – Roma Downey and Mark Burnett, who took faith-themed entertainment to new global heights with their record-setting miniseries THE BIBLE and their feature film SON OF GOD, have set their sights on WOODLAWN, Football movie set in the segregated south in the 70’s that is as real and relevant today as it was 40 years ago.  WOODLAWN premieres in theaters nationwide on October 16th.

Downey and Burnett serve as executive producers under their LightWorkers Media banner. Their previous big-screen credits include SON OF GOD, LITTLE BOY and the much-anticipated epic BEN-HUR due in theaters from Paramount Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures next spring.

WOODLAWN, an Erwin Brothers film produced by Kevin Downes, is an exhilarating high school football story about revival and reconciliation that offers hope for overcoming the racial crises facing America today. That is what drew the husband-and-wife team to the project.

“The goal of all of our faith-based projects has been to spotlight the power and goodness of God,” Downey explained. “WOODLAWN fits that bill perfectly: It’s an exciting and emotional look at how faith changes the fortunes and hearts of a football team, a high school and an entire city. This story is an important reminder of what faith in action looks like.  WOODLAWN is filled with truly memorable performances and at the heart of the film young Caleb Castille is an amazing new discovery in the lead role”

“Jon and Andy Erwin have made a special film, one that will make you stand and cheer and bring you to your knees in tears.” added Burnett  “It’s amazing to see Sean Astin in his first football movie since RUDY.”

WOODLAWN tells the true-life story of Tony Nathan (newcomer Caleb Castille), who lands in a powder keg of anger and violence when he joins fellow African-American students at Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Ala., after its government-mandated desegregation in 1973. The Woodlawn Colonels football team is a microcosm of the problems at the school and in the city, which erupts in cross burnings and riots, and Coach Tandy Geralds (Nic Bishop) is at a loss to solve these unprecedented challenges with his disciplinarian ways.

It’s only when Hank (Sean Astin), an outsider who has been radically affected by the message of hope and love he experienced at a Christian revival meeting, convinces Coach Geralds to let him speak to the team that something truly remarkable begins to happen. More than 40 players, nearly the entire team, black and white, give their lives over to the “better way” Hank tells them is possible through following Jesus, and the change is so profound in them it affects their coach, their school and their community in ways no one could have imagined.

The Colonels make a run at the state playoffs led by Nathan, who achieves superstar status in Birmingham and attracts the attention of legendary University of Alabama football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant (Jon Voight).  It’s the miracle, Hank says, of what happens when God shows up.

“We’re honored Roma and Mark are Exec. Producing with us to bring this important story to the big screen at such an important time in history,” director Jon Erwin said. “They are known internationally for sharing God’s unwavering love for us all through quality entertainment. That’s why Andy and I made WOODLAWN – to share that message. It’s why we got into filmmaking in the first place.”

WOODLAWN, distributed by Pure Flix in conjunction with Provident Films, stars Sean Astin (RUDY, THE LORD OF THE RINGS TRILOGY, MOM’S NIGHT OUT), Nic Bishop (COVERT AFFAIRS, BODY OF PROOF), Caleb Castille (in his feature film debut), C. Thomas Howell (THE OUTSIDERS, RED DAWN), Sherri Shepherd (THE VIEW, PRECIOUS) and Academy-Award winner JON VOIGHT (COMING HOME, ALI, NATIONAL TREASURE). It is directed by The Erwin Brothers (OCTOBER BABY, MOM’S NIGHT OUT) from a script by Jon Erwin and Quinton Peeples and is produced by Kevin Downes (FAITH OF OUR FATHERS, COURAGEOUS).

To learn more about the movie, visit www.woodlawnmovie.com/pressroom

BIOGRAPHY OF SUFFRAGAN BISHOP NANCY L. CLARK

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Pastor Nancy L. Clark, founder and pastor of Joy of the Lord Ministries, Inc. in Greenville, SC. and founder of Nancy Clark Ministries, Inc.

 

Pastor Clark is the 2^nd of 11 children born to the late William & Sula Holland Taylor. She is married to Deacon James H. Clark, who embraces her in the work of the Lord. They share in the lives of three children and four grandchildren. She was employed and retired from the US Postal Service with 33 years of service in human resources.

 

She is ordained with the credentials from the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Inc. of which the church is affiliated. Theological background includes the Ministerial Institute of the PAW and other bible related studies and she vows to be a lifelong student of the bible.

 

In June 2006 the Honorable Richard E. Young appointed her as the first female District Elder in the South Carolina State Council of the PAW. She was assigned to serve as the Advisor for the Ministers Wives of the SCSC.

 

In March 2010 a church to house Joy of the Lord Ministries, Inc. was purchased along with 2 houses and 4 adjacent lots. Also, in 2010 she was awarded the “The Church and Community Woman of Excellence Award” by the state of South Carolina.

 

In October 2014 the Honorable Charles H. Ellis III elevated her as the first female Suffragan Bishop in the South Carolina State Council. She currently serves over “Women’s Affairs” in the SCSC.

 

Pastor Clark is an uncompromising visionary who serves the flock of God with joy while nurturing them in the word, fostering relationships, and leading by example. She is committed to the souls of all mankind. She is currently actively involved and committed to the community efforts and is a part of a task force for community revitalization.

 

She is a woman with a vision that walks by faith while believing in the power of prayer. She is currently working on the publication of her first book.

 

  Her favorite scripture is, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me” Philippians 4:13, she is forever greatful to God for finding her worthy to lead his people.

The Good Lie

Beloved. That’s the word that Gary Schneeberger, the senior vice president of publicity and communication for Grace Hill Media, used to describe the new motion picture “The Good Lie”. It appears his description may be spot on.

Rick Warren has called the movie “Academy-Award worthy.” Focus on the Family says it’s “moving, filled with hope, heart and sacrificial love.” Reviewers have described it with words like “terrific,” “uplifting,” “life-changing,” “unforgettable” “brilliant,” “entertaining” and “joyful.”

I had the chance to “e-meet” Mr. Schneeberger on yesterday and get the inside scoop on this new blockbuster film currently in theaters.

Tell us a little about yourself and Grace Hill Media.

I’m Gary, the senior vice president of publicity and communication for Grace Hill Media . Here at Grace Hill we’re in our 15th year as the preeminent name in faith-based marketing, having completed over 350 movie and television promotional campaigns since our inception, on movies like NOAH, THE MONUMENTS MEN, LONE SURVIVOR, MAN OF STEEL, GRAVITY, THE BLIND SIDE, THE DAVINCI CODE, THE LORD OF THE RINGS, LES MISERABLES, THE HOBBIT. So this really is a dream job for a guy who loves Jesus and movies. 

Tell us about the film.  

THE GOOD LIE tells the true-life story of the Sudanese Lost Boys. These children, thousands of them, suffered horribly during their country’s civil war, many of them losing their parents and winding up in refugee camps. The movie tells that part of their story – but also the inspirational part about how their hope and faith allowed them to persevere and then, when a ministry arranged to bring them to America, allowed them to flourish and bless others.  The movie is about the power of faith and love to turn brutality into beauty, and embraces a life-changing truth: when you help and bless others, you’re the one who is helped and blessed the most.”

Sounds like a great story line. Who are the stars in this film?     

Academy-Award winner Reese Witherspoon plays a woman who helps the Lost Boys find jobs once they get to America – and they change her life. The real stars of the film are the three young actors and one young actress who play the Sudanese refugees: Arnold Oceang, Ger Duany, Emmanuel Jal and Kuoth Wiel.  Ger and Emmanuel are actual Lost Boys themselves – they lived through the tragedies and triumphs the movie depicts.

 It’s pretty cool that the Lost Boys get the chance to tell their own story. Many times the director would just have a seasoned actor play their role.  Did you have the opportunity to interact with the cast?

  Because our company has been working on marketing the film, I’ve done a lot of tweeting about it – the great reviews it’s gotten, the feature stories and interviews that tell the story of the Lost Boys. And every single time I posted something on Twitter, all the young actors – Arnold, Ger, Emmanuel and Kuoth – would “like” and “retweet” it. That tells me they’re pretty special: actors in a major motion picture but not at all thinking of themselves as “stars.” Very sweet people.

What have the reviews for the movie been like thus far?

What’s perhaps most impressive is the audience reaction to the movie. Audiences polled by Cinemascore, the industry standard for gauging filmgoer opinions, rated THE GOOD LIE an “A+” – just the 53rd movie in the last 30 years to receive that honor.

Wow that is impressive! What would you say to convince moviegoers who wouldn’t normally choose to

see a drama like the Good Lie in theaters to purchase a ticket to see the film?

This is an important and challenging movie. It will entertain you, for sure. The acting is wonderful and the story is harrowing sometimes, heartwarming other times. And it’s really funnier than you’d think it would be. But even more than all that, it’s the kind of film that will inspire you to do something to help those around you who are less fortunate. It’s a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll. 

What message do you think movie lovers to take away from the film?

Through faith and hope, anything is possible.

It was great to e-meet you Gary and I look forward to seeing The Good Lie.

Check out the trailer for the film below.

Have you seen the Good Lie? Are you planning to see the Good Lie while in theaters? Tell me your thoughts on the film below.

Thanks for joining us on the Gospel Impact Radio blog where we bring you great content, beyond the music!

He Saw The Best in Me: A Stage Play

Today we had the opportunity to interview Princella Beasley-Smith, the playwright and director of the hit stage play “He Saw the Best of Me”coming to the Granville Art Center in Garland, TX on Saturday October 18, 2014.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a mother of three adult children and a MeeMee of four (girls) and one on the way.  I love to see people flourish, especially the underdogs.  I believe that we all are kings and queens of the most high God.  We are royalty! I am Royalty, that’s who I am! 

 How many plays have you written and directed?

I have written 3 plays and directed 2 plays.

That’s pretty awesome. What compelled you to write this story?

I have always written, but didn’t have the faith to go forward.  I would start it and never finish it.  Until one day I had gone to a play and it was a play and a dinner, well the dinner lasted longer than the play.  At that point, I decided to step out on faith and trust God and He hasn’t failed me yet.

Has it always been your dream to be a playwright/ director?

Yes, back in the 80’s I went to my very first stage play in Savannah called “ How I Got Over”.  It was just amazing to see and becoming a playwright/ director has been in my heart ever since.

Tell us a little about the play.

The play is about a woman named Constance Miller who finds herself living on St Helena Island, SC after being in and out of foster care. Constance’s early years of abuse and being shuffled from one foster home to another leads to much more abuse as an adult. After meeting TreMaine her life began to spiral out of control with years of prostitution, alcohol and drug abuse. Constance’s friend Paige decided enough is enough and offer’s Constance a helping hand, but Paige is dealing with her own demons.

In this story you will see how God is always the answer, no matter what others may think. Annie the owner of the Purple Rose flower shop will prove prayer without ceasing is the key. You will see when fighting your battles you must fight them on your knees with prayer. With God all things are possible if you only believe!

We have an amazing cast!  National recording artist Trent Cory,  Tommye Young West ; Jackie Boyd-Watkins former Kurt Carr Singer ; Cherrie Thompson-Scott are just a few of the talented artist in this play. Our leading lady, Josette Ables, has written 2 original songs and will be performing them.

We also have a number of other great actors:

• Rachelle Wilson who plays Paige~ look out!
• Big C the Encourager plays Pastor Hart who really doesn’t have a heart for God’s people
• Brandon Dillard plays the role of Tyrone a Godly man
• Jackylon Payne plays Sister Lynette; I am sure every church as a Sister Lynette
• Alex Carson (plays Officer Spalding)

This play will also introduce Chiquita Moses who debut as Dr. Buzzard the witch doctor.

 That is an amazing cast! I wouldn’t mind hearing them sing. How long have you all been preparing for the show?

                Well over 6 months. I like a lot of details.  Most importantly I like to work with excellence, giving God my very best.

  What was it like working with this all star cast?

 I have a great group; from the cast to the crew they are truly a blessing.  It’s a blessing to be able to write and have a group of talented individuals to bring it to life with such professionalism.  It’s a blessing and honor to have  others  believe in your vision.  I am one grateful playwright!

What would you say to convince a person who wouldn’t normally choose to see a faith-based play to come out to see your play He Saw the Best in Me?

I would say, it’s not about religion it’s about REALITY.  We live in a world of good and evil and we are faced with decision everyday and it’s up to us to choose to do what’s right.  I would encourage them not shy away because it’s faith based, these characters are acting out REALITY on the stage.  To see how God can take a situation and turn it around!  I am living proof that He can and He will if we would only trust HIM.

What message would you love for people to take away from your play?

Not all stories end happily ever after.  Again, the REALITY is not all will make it into HEAVEN however that’s our hope and prayer.  I pray that when they walk away, they would truly examine their own hearts and come away from anything that would hinder them from hearing the words from the Father saying “Well done my good and faithful servant”! 

Thanks for taking the time to interview with us Princella! We wish you much success with your play.

If we were in the Dallas/ Fort Worth metroplex, we would definitely check out this play. If you are in the DFW you can purchase your tickets to this event on eventbrite.com. Princella has also been generous enough to gift one awesome reader with a free ticket to her play.

To enter, you must be an email subscriber to this blog.  You must also leave a comment down below with the words “He Saw the Best in Me”. The winner will be announced next Tuesday October 14! Winner must claim their prize within 24 hours of being notified or another winner will be chosen. 

Thanks for following us as we continue to bring you great content beyond the music!

Festival Of Praise Tour Kicks Off this Week

If you haven’t heard by now, two of our favorite gospel artists Fred Hammond and Pastor Donnie McClurkin will begin their 17-city Festival of Praise tour this week. We don’t know about you all but we are excited. The first stop will be at Fallbrook Church in Houston, Texas this Wednesday September 17th and the final stop on their tour is slated for October 25th in Atlanta, GA.  Today the seasoned singers made a stop into the Potter’s House of Dallas where Fred Hammond led an awesome praise and worship service before inviting Pastor Donnie to grace the stage. In an interesting turn of events, it was announced that Pastor Donnie McClurkin was currently recovering after recently having vocal chord surgery to remove cancer and scar tissue AND that Mr. Fred Hammond was having knee issues. As Fred humorously stated “I can’t walk and he can’t talk.” This tour will be a bit interesting to say the least.

Although their physical bodies maybe ailing them, they have not allowed this to stop them from blessing God’s people with their gift. We love their faithfulness to God and their ministry. We pray that God’s gives them the strength and health needed for the journey. As the book of Luke chapter 1 verse 37 tells us, “for with God nothing shall be impossible” and we believe that the success of their tour will be a powerful testimony to the glory of God.

Are you as excited about this tour as we are? Will they coming to a city near you? Do you already have tickets to see this gospel duo in concert? Let us know in the comments below.

Stellar Awards 2015

The 2015 Stellar Awards weekend will be held in the city of neon lights Las Vegas, Nevada. I don’t know about you all be we are excited that the event has moved from Music City to the Entertainment Capital of the World. Las Vegas is also known as Sin City but we are not expecting any of that to be going down during the Stellars. The year 2015 will also mark the 30th year in the history of the awards show. This award winning, gospel music spinning weekend will kick off on Sunday March 22, 2015 and end on March 28, 2015.

Embed from Getty Images

For the first time in history, the Stellar Awards will be held in conjunction with the Gospel Music Workshop of America Convention. So get ready for a host of informative seminars, dozens of awesome listening parties and praise parties, live concerts, and much more!  Singers, artists, radio broadcasters and music lovers alike this looks like an event you won’t want to miss! For more information, check out the Stellar Awards website.

Official voting for your favorite artists and radio stations will begin on December 2nd and ends on December 30th. Stay tuned for your opportunity to cast your ballot for your favorite ministers of the gospel.

Will you be attending one of 2015’s most prestigious gospel music events? Let us know in the comments below!

About Beyond the Music!

Welcome to Beyond the Music: the official blog for Gospel Impact Radio!

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