Cornerstone – Jesus is the Rock – Song Resources

Worship song resources for Cornerstone – Jesus is the Rock by John Pape. Worship leader’s use these song resources to learn the song to use in your ministry.

Video

Song Information

SongwriterJohn Earl Pape
ThemeWorship
KeyG
Tempo80
TagsJesus, Cornerstone, Rock of Israel, Faith, Salvation
CCLI3076868
ScripturesRomans 9:33, Isaiah 28:16, 1 Peter 2:7-8, Job 38:4-6, Jeremiah 51:26, Psalm 118:22, Isaiah 19:13, 1 Peter 2:4-8, Acts 4:10-12, Ephesians 2:20-22

Resources

Lyrics

[VERSE 1]
True to the Word this stone   refused,
By the builders, was the Rock of Israel.
So, don’t pass by and ignore this rock
Or you will stumble trip and fall.
[CHORUS]
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Jesus is the Rock
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Upon this Rock I'll stand.
[VERSE 2]
Be not ashamed, never run away,
In your belief in the Rock of Israel.
So, don’t pass by and ignore this Rock
Or you will stumble, trip and fall.
[CHORUS]
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Jesus is the Rock
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Upon this Rock I'll stand.
[Bridge]
Build on this Rock
Be firm in your faith   ​
and You will know the Lord.
[CHORUS]
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Jesus is the Rock
Cornerstone, Cornerstone
Upon this Rock I'll stand.

About This Song

This song is inspired by scriptures found in the Bible. When a building is constructed one of the most important elements is the cornerstone. This is the first piece that is placed down. It is important because it become the primary reference for the entire building. If the cornerstone is placed incorrectly it will affect the integrity of the the building. The cornerstone is this song refers to Jesus. Jesus is the chief cornerstone upon which the church is built. Unfortunately, for unbelievers the cornerstone becomes a rock or offence or a stumbling block. During the time when Jesus was on earth the religious leaders eyes where blinded and were unable to see Jesus for who he was. Jesus brought salvation to the world. But for the religious leader Jesus was offensive and a stumbling block and the adamantly rejected Him. This resulted in the the most heinous earthly punishment of crucifixion. This song is about in individuals today and their relation and belief in Jesus. For the believer there is great comfort, for the non believer it is a warning.


Praise and Honor – Song Story

The main reason I write worship songs like Praise and Honor is to be a blessing and resource for the Christian church. As I ponder about the song Praise and Honor here are some answers to questions that hopefully share the song’s story.

When a person come to Christ and becomes born again it is the beginning of a new journey. This journey is a life long pursuit with a specific destination. We will all face the afterlife once we leave this world. It is something that no person can avoid. The the believer in Christ our hope is heaven. Our destination is heaven and it is something many

Christian hope and yearn for. It is the work of God that satisfies that hope. In the meantime we need to express our praise, worship and adoration toward God. The song is also about the attributes of God. He is Almighty and He is Majestic for that we are to Praise and Honor him. Of course one of the benefits of heaven is the absence of pain, hurt and sorrow. This is removed and we will be comforted.

Song Lyrics

To dwell in Your presence LORD is my heart's one desire
Only You can satisfy this yearning deep inside
To be where a river flows from God's holy throne
My praise will rise to you as my soul starts to sing

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

To dwell in Your presence LORD is my heart's one desire
Only You can satisfy this yearning deep inside
To be where a river flows from God's holy throne
My praise will rise to you as my soul starts to sing

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

No more pain
No more tears
No more sorrow
Forever set free

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

You are Majesty
You are Majesty
You are Majesty

Why I wrote Praise and Honor?

Praise and Honor was written because there is a deep down yearning to be with God. The Psalmist David so eloquently expressed this “One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life” But what is that look like? When reading Revelation there is a vivid picture of what heaven must be like. Add to that what Jesus did to allow believer to enter heaven only deserve homage to his almighty majesty.

What inspired the song Praise and Honor?

The song Praise and Honor is inspired by a combination of several bible verses.  Here are ones that stand out in regards to the song itself

Scripture References

“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.”

Revelation 22:1

“And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying: “Blessing and honor and glory and power Be to Him who sits on the throne, And to the Lamb, forever and ever!”

Revelation 5:13

“for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

Revelation 7:17

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Hebrews 4:16

“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.”

Psalm 45:6

“His seed also I will make to endure forever, And his throne as the days of heaven.”

Psalm 89:29

“The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all”

Psalm 103:19

“One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple.”

Psalm 27:4

“I will bring honor to your name in every generation. Therefore, the nations will praise you forever and ever.”

Psalm 45:17

“Then I will praise God’s name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving.”

Psalm 69:30

“So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory.”

Psalm 63:2

“You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”

Revelation 4:11

“After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying, “Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!”

Revelation 19:1

What message would you like people to take from the song Praise and Honor?

One day everyone will meet the Creator. For those who’s hope is in a eternal home in heaven this song attempt to portray what that might be like. Think about that moment where there is not more pain. Jesus wipes away your tear. Forever to be set free from the sin that weighs up down daily.

In this song it is my hope that the individual that sings these words will have a fore knowledge of what it will be like in heaven. Christian devotion to God start now. Let us give praise and honor to God as Almighty Majesty.

Listen to Praise and Honor

Related Links


Praise and Honor Song Resources

Worship song resources for Praise and Honor by John Pape. Worship leader’s use these song resources to learn the song to use in your ministry.

Video

Song Information

SongwriterJohn Earl Pape
ThemeWorship
KeyE
Tempo86
TagsMajesty, God Almighty, Heaven, Kingdom of God, adoration, throne, river
CCLI7079623
ScripturesRevelation 22:1,
Revelation 7:17,
Revelation 5:13,
Psalm 27:4,
Psalm 45:17,
Psalm 69:30,
Psalm 63:2,
Revelation 4:11,
Revelation 19:1,
Psalm 45:6,
Psalm 89:29,
Psalm 103:19,
Hebrews 4:16

Audio

Resources

Lyrics

[Verse]

To dwell in Your presence LORD is my heart's one desire
Only You can satisfy this yearning deep inside
To be where a river flows from God's holy throne
My praise will rise to you as my soul starts to sing

[Chorus]

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

[Verse]

To dwell in Your presence LORD is my heart's one desire
Only You can satisfy this yearning deep inside
To be where a river flows from God's holy throne
My praise will rise to you as my soul starts to sing

[Chorus]

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

[Bridge]

No more pain
No more tears
No more sorrow
Forever set free

[Chorus]

Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
God Almighty reigns
Praise and Honor
Glory and Power
You are Majesty

[Outro]

You are Majesty
You are Majesty
You are Majesty

About This Song

When a person come to Christ and becomes born again it is the beginning of a new journey. This journey is a life long pursuit with a specific destination. We will all face the afterlife once we leave this world. It is something that no person can avoid. The the believer in Christ our hope is heaven. Our destination is heaven and it is something many Christian hope and yearn for. It is the work of God that satisfies that hope. In the meantime we need to express our praise, worship and adoration toward God. The song is also about the attributes of God. He is Almighty and He is Majestic for that we are to Praise and Honor him. Of course one of the benefits of heaven is the absence of pain, hurt and sorrow. This is removed and we will be comforted.


Only Sovereign Lord – Song Resources

Worship song resources for Only Sovereign Lord by John Pape. Worship leader’s use these song resources to learn the song to use in your ministry.

Video

Song Information

SongwriterJohn Earl Pape
ThemeWorship
KeyG
Tempo110
TagsHoly ,Christian Rock, Heaven, God, Contemporary Christian, Jesus, God, Sovereign, Surrender
CCLI7079621
ScripturesActs 4:24
Psalms 146:1-2
Revelation 15:3
John 1:29

Audio

Resources

Lyrics

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord
Seated on the throne
You are worthy of all praise
bowing down I honor you

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all 

Mighty, Mighty, is the Lamb
High and lifted up
You're the Savior of my soul
By Your blood I've overcome

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all

I surrender my life to you
I surrender my life to you

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all

About This Song

The meaning of the word sovereign is “a supreme ruler”. That is who the Lord Jesus is. Also, there is only one Lord we need to follow. That is where the title comes, Only Sovereign Lord. The song starts out exalting Jesus as a holy Lord in His rightful place on the throne. This speaks of his royalty and position to rule. When looking to Jesus the appropriate response in worship. In the song this act is shown honor through bowing at his feet and lifting him up.


Only Sovereign Lord – Song Story

The main reason I write worship songs like Only Sovereign Lord is to be a blessing and resource for the Christian church. As I ponder about the song Only Sovereign Lord here are some answers to questions that hopefully share the song’s story.

The meaning of the word sovereign is “a supreme ruler”. That is who the Lord Jesus is. Also, there is only one Lord we need to follow. That is where the title comes, Only Sovereign Lord.

Song Lyrics

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord
Seated on the throne
You are worthy of all praise
bowing down I honor you

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all 

Mighty, Mighty, is the Lamb
High and lifted up
You're the Savior of my soul
By Your blood I've overcome

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all

I surrender my life to you
I surrender my life to you

Only Sovereign Lord 
At Your feet I fall
Only Sovereign Lord 
You are above all

The song starts out exalting Jesus as a holy Lord in His rightful place on the throne. This speaks of his royalty and position to rule. When looking to Jesus the appropriate response in worship. In the song this act is shown honor through bowing at his feet. In Act 4:24 it is written

“When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them.”

The role of the Christian worshipper is to give honor and praise. We are also called to place him above everything.

In the second verse the song reminds the worshiper the greatest thing done for mankind. Jesus is the Lamb that was slain for our sins. The amazing thing is that this Lamb is mighty is strength. Through the blood of Jesus comes salvation. Our salvation allows us to overcome sin and death. But there is one thing every person must do to receive this gift.

We find that response in the bridge of the song. Only when a person surrenders to Jesus can they experience true salvation. John the Baptist so eloquently said

“Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

We are designed to worship God. The fall makes this act difficult. However, the Mighty Lamb Jesus who is the “Only Sovereign Lord” provides people a way of salvation. For this honor him by bowing down at the feet of Jesus who sits on the throne.

Why I wrote Only Sovereign Lord?

There will be a day in the future where everyone will bow down and acknowledge that Jesus is Lord. In this song the picture I want to paint is what that would be for Christ followers. The attributes of the Lord are many. He is Holy, He is worthy and He is mighty. Our response is to acknowledge that he is the one and only sovereign Lord. The worshippers response is to fall down and bow at his feet. That is an act of submission to His rule.

What inspired the song Only Sovereign Lord?

The song Only Sovereign Lord is inspired by a combination of several bible verses.  Here are ones that stand out in regards to the song itself

When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them.

Acts 4:24 NIV

Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
While I live I will praise the Lord;
I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

PSALM 146 1-2

“And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are your ways, thou King of saints.”

Revelation 15:3

“Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker”

Psalm 95:6

Then Job arose, tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped.

Job 1:20

What message would you like people to take from the song Only Sovereign Lord?

There will be a day where everyone will die. There are options available today as we live to make a decision to commit our lives to God. In this song it is my hope that the individual that sings these words will have a fore knowledge of what it will be like in heaven. Christian devotion to God start now. Let us reverence the Lord for what He has done. Our lives need to surrender to the amazing free gift of salvation.

Listen to Only Sovereign Lord

Related Links


Where Do You Stand – Song Story

The obvious reason for writing the song Where Do You Stand is to be a blessing and resource for the Christian church. This song is also one for the non-believer who has not yet made a decision to follow Christ as Savior. As I ponder about the song Where Do You Stand, here are some answers to questions that hopefully share the song’s story.

Why I wrote God Has Come?

There is a point in everyone’s life where they need to make an important decision regarding where they stand in regards to a relationship with God.  They are either for or against God’s plan of salvation. The song is about making an important decision that has eternal ramifications.  For some people the decision is easy, for others it is hard.  To add to this there is also a huge spiritual battle for the souls.  There is also an urgency because none of us know the time or hour when we will meet the Lord.  However, for those who accept God’s plan of salvation there is victory.  My hope is that this song will encourage Christians that God is our salvation especially when facing spiritual battles.

What inspired the song God Has Come?

The song God has Come is inspired by a combination of several bible verses.  Here are ones that stand out in regards to the song itself

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8

This is the spiritual battle that is being fought for the soul of every person.  It is not necessarily something we can see, feel or touch but the enemy is out there deceiving and moving souls from the truth.

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2

Corinthians 5:17

For anyone who is made alive by the resurrection power of Jesus for salvation, it means a new life with hope of heaven. This life changing event is a decision that each individual needs to make sometime in their life. 

 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

Luke 21:27

There will be a day when the Lord will return with the angels and saints.

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Revelation 1:7

This is a parallel verse to Luke 21:27 where the Lord will return.

What message would you like people to take from the song God Has Come?

We do not know the time or hour that God will call us up.  There is an urgency in play.  Time is fleeting and each individual needs to examine where they stand in regards to heaven or hell.  My hope is the some help move a person closer to making the life altering decision to accept God plan of salvation through the live, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Listen to Where Do You Stand

Related Links


Where Do You Stand – Song Resource

Worship song resources for Where Do You Stand by John Pape. Worship leader’s use these song resources to learn the song to use in your ministry.

Video

Song Information

SongwriterJohn Earl Pape
ThemeWorship
KeyE / Cm
Tempo69
TagsSpiritual Battle,
End Times,
Angels,
Revelation,
Song for the Church,
Salvation,
Victory,
Day of the Lord,
Eschatology,
Rapture,
Faith
CCLI7079620
Scriptures1 Peter 5:8
2 Corinthians 5:17

Audio

Resources

Lyrics

Battle lines have been drawn.
By the force of right and wrong
There’s a choice you must make

Tugging away at your heart
Oh, Where do you stand?

It is time, the enemy nears
Search your soul and fight all fear
All around the trumpet sounds

The day of the LORD is at hand
Where do you stand?

Cause the day of the LORD is at hand
Where do you stand?

There’s a war for your soul
Arm yourself for the day
Angels come in the clouds
All the saints will rise up

There’s a war for your soul
Arm yourself for the day
Angels come in the clouds
All the saints will rise up

There’s a war for your soul
Arm yourself for the day
Angels come in the clouds
All the saints will rise up

in Victory!
in Victory!
in Victory!

Oh the Day of the LORD is at hand
Oh Where do you stand?

The Mediatunes Project All Rights Reserved
CCLI 7079620

About This Song

This song is about questioning where a person stands regarding their faith. There is a spiritual battle between forces of light and dark or right and wrong. There is an urgency for making a decision for the Lord as the end times gets closer everyday. There are forces in the spiritual realm that battle for a persons soul.

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

2 Corinthians 5:17

New Song by John Pape, God Has Come, Released March 18th 2022

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

EL CAJON, CALIFORNIA John Pape from El Cajon California, an independent, self-managed Christian songwriter who writes and produces worship and praise music for seekers and believers in the church, announces the release of a new single “God Has Come“.

The song was officially released March 18th on various music sites that include Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon. The song “God Has Come” is a praise and worship song written for church congregation worship services.

This song is about questioning where a person stands regarding their faith. There is a spiritual battle between forces of light and dark or right and wrong. There is an urgency for making a decision for the Lord as the end times gets closer everyday. There are forces in the spiritual realm that battle for a persons soul.

As a Christian Praise and Worship song it is based on the scripture Isaiah 12:2

Behold, God is my salvation I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’

This song is a pure DIY project with the recording and production be done in a home studio. Songwriter and Musician John Pape create the song as a solo artist.

John states, “My music ministry is to create songs that will edify, encourage, educate and entertain people with the goal of creating a closer relationship to Jesus. The songs are crafted to encourage Christians in their daily walk. The songs provide a positive soundtrack for people’s lives.”

John’s songwriting drive is to honor God though words and music. His experience has grown over several years of honing the art of songwriting, musicianship and production.

John is also author of the book “Building a House of Worship”. The book was written as a guide to Christian church worship leaders to better minister to the people they serve as they use their gift of music.

In addition to writing songs, John also uses his musical gifts to lead worship in local churches.

Currently John is working on a project to release several new Praise and Worship songs that were written to build and encourage Christians in their daily walk.

God Has Come” is now streaming on all music platforms.”

For song resources visit https://mediatunes.com/god-has-come-song-resources

###

Available Assets

For high quality Photos and other information digital assets for this release go to https://mediatunes.com/God-Has-Come-Song-EPK

Contact

John Pape
Mediatunes Inc
445 N Cuyamaca Street
Phone 619-593-9483
Email: john@mediatunes.com

Mediatunes Inc is a multimedia service business that offers several services to help its clients better communicate to their audience. Its primary goal is to provide multimedia type services.

Visit this Pre-Save link https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/johnpape/god-has-come

###

God Has Come Isaiah 21:2 Song Single Cover Art

For digital assets for this release go to

https://mediatunes.com/god-has-come-epk

Contact

John Pape
Mediatunes Inc
445 N Cuyamaca Street
El Cajon CA 92020

Phone 619-593-9483

Mediatunes Inc is a multimedia service business that offers several services to help its clients better communicate to their audience. Its primary goal is to provide multimedia type services.

New Song by John Pape Where Do You Stand Release April 1st 2022

PRESS RELEASE

EL CAJON, CALIFORNIA John Pape from El Cajon California, an independent, self-managed Christian songwriter who creates worship and praise music for seekers and believers in the church, announces the release of a new single “Where Do You Stand“.

It is schedule to come out on April 1st,2022 on various music sites that include Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon through the online distributor DistroKid. The song Where Do You Stand is a praise and worship song written for church congregation worship services.

This song is about questioning where a person stands regarding their faith.  There is a spiritual battle between forces of light and dark or right and wrong. There is an urgency for making a decision for the Lord as the end times gets closer every day.  There are forces in the spiritual realm that battle for a person’s soul.

As a Christian Praise and Worship song it is based on a couple of Bible scriptures

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

2 Corinthians 5:17

This song is a pure DIY project with the recording and production be done in a home studio. Songwriter and Musician John Pape create the song as a solo artist.

John states, “My music ministry is to create songs that will edify, encourage, educate and entertain people with the goal of creating a closer relationship to Jesus. The songs are crafted to encourage Christians in their daily walk. The songs provide a positive soundtrack for people’s lives.”

John’s songwriting drive is to honor God though words and music. His experience has grown over several years of honing the art of songwriting, musicianship and production.

John is also author of the book “Building a House of Worship”. The book was written as a guide to Christian church worship leaders to better minister to the people they serve as they use their gift of music.

In addition to writing songs, John also uses his musical gifts to lead worship in local churches.

Currently John is working on a project to release several new Praise and Worship songs that were written to build and encourage Christians in their daily walk.

Visit this Pre-Save link https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/johnpape/where-do-you-stand

###

Where Do You Stand Artwork

For digital assets for this release go to

https://mediatunes.com/where-do-you-stand-epk

Contact

John Pape

Mediatunes Inc

445 N Cuyamaca Street

El Cajon CA 92020

Phone 619-593-9483

Mediatunes Inc is a multimedia service business that offers several services to help its clients better communicate to their audience. Its primary goal is to provide multimedia type services.

God Has Come Song Interview with John Pape

God Has Come song interview questions. Get to know about the song song by John Pape.

For those who haven’t heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?

I was raised in the suburb of San Diego in the city of El Cajon.  Growing up my interest in music start early on. In elementary school a played violin in the school orchestra and sang in the glee club.  Although I did not continue with the violin, I did later in High School pick up the guitar.  It was a Christmas present.  It was probably prompted by my parents because while digging out a footing for a retaining wall being built, I would “air guitar” the shovel.  Also, I remember building a makeshift guitar out of an old wooden box, a board, screws and copper wire.  Perhaps that was the clue they needed.

Along with the guitar I also got 6 lessons.  I am dominate left-handed but the guitar is about the only thing I do right-handed. It was at that first lesson the teacher forced me to flip the guitar over. I learned a few basic things then after that I basically self-taught myself to play. 

One day at lunch at school, I met a someone who also played guitar and we struck up a friendship.  We would jam and improvise for hours.  Then another friend asked if we would like to play at a wedding.  We probably only knew 3-4 songs at the time. We said yes.  This was the start of the first band I was in.

I started songwriting in my early twenties and love the artform.  It provides an outlet to express thoughts and ideas.  My hope is that the songs I share will touch the listener in an emotional or impactful way.

 Tell us about your new song single ‘God Has Come‘ and what the inspiration behind it was?

Why I wrote God Has Come?

The premise behind the song is found in scripture.  Specifically, the bible verse Isaiah 12:2.  This single verse is packed with God’s love.  First off God is the source of salvation.  We all have this in common, there are times in life where we need to be saved. 

These could be dark and lonely times.  It could be moments of distress and anxiety   However, to acknowledge God is my salvation leads to the behavior of trust and peace.  Afterall, peace is the opposite of being afraid.  Some translation end with the word “victory”.  And that is what Christians get when putting their entire trust in Him.

My hope is that this song will encourage Christians that God is our salvation especially when facing spiritual battles.

What inspired the song God Has Come?

The song God has Come is inspired by a verse in Isaiah 12:2

Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’

First off God seek our individuals in their time of need.  His timing is always prefect.  God brings salvation.  As a Christian the belief is that Jesus is Savior.  In some sense this verse is prophetic in nature regarding Jesus.  Jesus is God and he came in human form to bring salvation to the world.

As Christ followers one is the thing that needs to be done is to let the world know through Christ you have victory.  You have victory over death, sickness, oppression, addictions, and so many other things.  When we focus on God and his salvation it gives believers victory.

What message would you like people to take from the song God Has Come?

The message I would like to express with this song is one of salvation comes from God and we have victory. This comes from the perspective of my Christian lifestyle. Christianity is one to the most influenced who I am. Faith is not something to be placed under a bushel, it is something to be shared with other. In life there are times of joy and time of sorrow. There are difficult and stressful situation we all face.  In my songs the hope is to instill the abundant life though a relationship with Christ

How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?

There are several influences that has shaped my style of music.  In some ways it is eclectic.  My early influences were primarily shaped by my passion for the guitar.  The styles of music would include blues, rock, new-wave/punk.  Becoming a musician I’ve grown and expanded my styles.  As a songwriter the style would be more of singer/songwriter, folk and Contemporary Christian Music.  Growing as a Christian songwriter here are some of the people who influenced my style. Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Benton Brown, Sonic Flood and many other.

How would you define success in your career as an artist?

Success as a songwriter would be where the song serves the listener.  When it comes to praise and worship music an even greater success would be creating a song that build a better relationship with God.  In actuality in the end success would be to glorify God.

What does the next year hold for you?

I have several songs in the wings that are ready to be released.  My desire is to release a different song at least one a month for the next year.  I also want to continue writing more songs.

How did you get involved with making music?

When I first playing the guitar, I had a mentor that encouraged improvisation.  Improvisation stimulates creativity.  I lot of material can be created, some of it good, some not so good.  But gleaning motifs and sounds can be the genesis for a new song.   Really it about messing around until something sparks. 

Do you have any plans to release more music in the near future?

Yes, there are plans to release more music in the coming months.  My hope is to release a song every 4-5 weeks.

What first got you into music?

My first musical experience was playing the violin.  I was about 10-11 years old.  My parents took me to a concert and there was a violinist.  Apparently, I told my parents that I loved the sound and wanted to play the violin.  That got me into the elementary school orchestra.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

Over the years I have done many genres of music.  There are actually 2 type of music I make currently. The first contemporary Christian Praise and Worship music. With this style I want to be a resource for the church.  I desire to create songs that help people connect with God.  In addition to Contemporary Christian Praise and Worship music I also compose corporate instrumental music. This is the kind of music that is used in television, film or advertising.

What is your creative process like?

As a writer, the creative process begins with an idea.  Usually, it is a word or phrase.  It could be inspired by verse in the Bible.  Then I compile a ton of ideas and thoughts that are related to the original idea.  Ideas then pop out as the process of taking the ideas and translating them into lyrics.  Then the lyrics are edited and refined though rewriting. 

As a musician, ideas are developed by messing around as I improvise melody ideas.  Again, these ideas then get sifted through and refined.  The melding of words and music is then worked out.  When it comes to the song, I do like to work within the framework of the standard song form. The songs are then recorded as a rough demo.  Then the work in the DAW is started.  I like to start with the foundation of bass and drums then build other instrument on that foundation.  Eventually a song is produced and recorded.

What is your definition of worship?

Worship is the act of giving devotion and honor to God. Worship includes all area of life for the Christian believer. It not just a song we sing.  It is found in our fellowship, Bible reading, and in prayer.  As the word say. Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.

Describe what worship looks like and why it’s more than music.

Music is only a tool to help the Church communicate with God with the hope that the words reflect our devotion to Him.  But it not the only way to worship.  There are so many ways a person can worship God. There is worship found in being a servant.  It can be found in prayer time.  It can be found listening to the Word. 

Do you have a personal mission statement?

My mission is to glorify God in all that I do. To do that my actions and deeds need to edify, educate, entertain and encourage others.

Explain your call to ministry.

As believers have a call in their life.  To define my call would be to look at my life experiences both the good and the bad. Then I would look at the talents I possess.  These are given by God to glorify Him. Next, I look at my Spiritual Gift.  This unique blend of attributes is what defines a calling.  I believe my calling is to encourage, education and edify people around me.  One way to do that is through music.  Of course, that is not the only way as I have a call of ministry to my family.

The Bible instructs us to “play skillfully.” Do you work hard at your craft?

This is one of my favorite verses in the bible.  It shows me that God want the best.  One way is through work.  The only way to play skillfully is though learning, practice and execution.

Who are some of your favorite Christian songwriters?

Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin, Benton Brown, Paul Bloche are what come to mind.

Tell me about your testimony. How did you come to faith in Christ?

But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.

John 5:34

Ever since I remember I was somehow involved with music. In elementary school I learned to play the violin and was in the school orchestra. Also, I sang in the Glee Club. When I got older, I received a guitar as a Christmas present. I spent all of my spare time learning everything I could about the guitar. I played in several Garage bands in High School and my College days. Then I began to write songs. I learned by listening and copying artist that I liked. I learned from other musicians. Music was everything to me.

“The cross is foolishness to those that are perishing.”

Corinthians

All this time I was missing something in my life. I somehow knew it had a spiritual element to it. So, there I was exploring things that at the time seemed to be spiritual. I looked to the stars for the answers in astrology. Then, I looked at the Greek and Roman gods Mythology for answers. I was seeking but never finding the truth. These things always came up short. All though this time it was my belief that the “Christian thing” with Jesus was a rather foolish approach to spiritual enlightenment. As I look back at my journey, I now realize that I was on the wrong track. I thought I was seeking God. But as the Bible says – No one seeks God. The real truth is, God is seeking us. He just needs to get our attention.

God was able to get my attention one day. I was presented with an invitation to church one day by the mother of a friend of mine. We entered this little church and the preacher was preaching about Jesus. He explained that we are born sinners and our eternal destination was rather bleak. But that God so loved us that her sent His Son Jesus to get us out of this mess.

How? Believe that Jesus rose from the dead three days after dying on the cross. And the power of His resurrection saves us from the ugly future that awaits us. Jesus gives us the ability the have fellowship with God for eternity. It was a pure Gospel message of salvation. At the end the preached asked if anyone would like to receive that give of salvation. It was at this time a vision came to me of Jesus asking me to come to Him. It was as though the lights turned on for the very first time.

Now I was placed in a rather peculiar situation. My lifestyle, which involved my music, put me in places that I began to feel uncomfortable. The lifestyle of a secular musician is one that makes it difficult for a Christian. There were influences that did not fit a new life in Christ. There was a spiritual war. It was at this time that I set aside my music. This break lasted for a couple of years. As I look back, I realize that music was an idol. And God needed to clean out the idols in my life. Of course, that’s not the end of the story.

One day I was reading my Bible and I read the parable of the talents. This truly stirred up my heart. I began to pray about my talents and how they could be used to glorify Jesus. Then Jesus revealed to me that day that I was to take my love for music and use it for his purpose. I then took a walk and as I was walking, I saw a piece of paper on the ground. You know that voice that speaks to you. It said John, pick up that piece of paper. At first, I ignored it. But as I passed by this piece of paper, I really felt that I better do what the voice said. So, I picked up the piece of paper. It was a photocopy of some music. But not just any music it was Christian Music!

Now, I knew that God had a plan and purpose for me. I immediately went to the store and picked up a local tabloid paper called the Reader. This is a local free newspaper. This publication has a special classified section for musicians. There was an ad requesting a bass player for a Christian music group. Now mind you my primary instrument is the guitar however I did have a bass that I used for recording. Within a week I was rehearsing with this group of Christian musicians. It is amazing how God works.

The next phase in my journey placed me in at the Horizon School of Evangelism. This is an extensive ministry school that concludes with a one-month practicum. It was at this school that my classmates learned that I knew how to play guitar. They asked me to play some Worship songs for the daily devotional.

My first experience was a total disaster in my mind. Even though I was in a Christian Music Group the songs were primarily Christian Rock music and I learned only the bass parts. To compound the problem, I was rarely if ever sang publicly in front of people by my self – There was the lead singer and I was always the guitar player. I did possess great knowledge and skill in my instrument. But it was that day I learned humility. I set out on my own strength. What a mistake. I quickly learned that worship music is very special and requires the proper mind set. It not about my ability and me it’s about the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit’s purpose. It is my desire to be used as a vessel to glorify Him.

Ever since the first time I was placed in a position to lead worship, I can testify that God has been molding and shaping me. Though His Holy Spirit he is guiding and directing my path in life. I truly find it a privilege and honor to be placed in this sacred position. I know that there is much further down the road. All I can do is allow Him to shape my future. And then someday when He calls, I will be there in heaven offering my song of praise to God.

I now lead worship and write songs to glorify God the Father the Creator of all things above and below.