Thursday, December 26, 2013

Set Free @ The No Name Saloon!!!

"You are strong in what you do, & I believe that what you're doing is unmistakably remarkable!" (From a young man that attended our Church Service Sunday at the No Name Saloon!!!)

"I was just talking to Morgan last night about being a part of set free, what you did yesterday (@ No Name Saloon) was huge!!!"

"Mike asked me yesterday how it went and I said well... I think it could not have went any smoother, he made a grown man cry at a bar. I think something hit that guy yesterday man. Whether it stays or goes you definitely struck a nerve."

Thomas Durham "GREAT SERVICE AT NO NAME!!!"

Melonnie (the owner of the bar)..........."Can't wait until the next one!" (Which will be January 19th, 2014)

These are comments sent to me via facebook this morning, after yesterday's Christmas Evening Service at the No Name Saloon. I brag on God only, here, but I must say, the attendance and out come far exceeded what I thought.

Eph. 3:20-21

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

It has been a great weekend! I thank God for putting it upon the hearts of these business owners to ask Set Free Daytona to come into their places and "preach" (BTW, that's what we do..................it's not a watered down nothing), and allows us full reign in whatever we want, in order to best get the Word of God presented.

When we go into these places, or what some would call "Behind Enemy Lines", not that the owners are our enemy, as they are definitely our allies, (you know WHO the enemy is), I tremble at times! I have spoken to several thousand people at once, back in the day, but when I do a service like the one we did yesterday, I get weak kneed, nauseated, and just plain scared at times, as I never know what we are going to encounter or who will perhaps jump up and rebuke me or want to start an argument. I mean there are people sitting just feet away from you drinking alcohol, and you can see some are pretty well lit up, but though I do get intimidated at times, they have always listened to me.

I know a few believers don't care much for the secular magazine that I publish from time to time, (though it is clean, and you know how some people can find fault with whatever they want to find fault with), yet I honestly believe it is through my 6 years of aggressive, printed opinions, (on God and politics), that as the owner of that little mag, it has propelled these people to show me utmost respect during times of ministry. God has used a "secular tool" to open up for Set Free Daytona, doors to share Christ with those readers, and yes that is who was there yesterday, our readers.

Now when we go into a place like this, we must be courageously humble, (though I was fearful I don't think I show ed it, as some bikers will see it and try you. Humility goes a long way, as does confidence!!!), and remember that we are on their turf. This is often a difficult task for aged believers, because they aren't use to seeing people drink beer while they are speaking or to hear some cuss words, but HEY, we are in their HOUSE!!!

Let me give you an example; one day we were feeding some folks at a well known homeless, drug dealing location, and one of the homeless people who was there (in his surroundings) said a cuss word and immediately was rebuked by one of our servers, honestly I'm not for sure ass is even a cuss word, but back to my point. My amigo looked at me and said, "That was quick, eh?", talking about the scolding of the cusser, then he said (and I had to chuckle on the inside), "I wonder if he (the server) would have done that at Lil Sturgis, when we are feeding all the bikers Sunday morning breakfast there, especially to one of club guys?" I didn't answer, but he and I knew that he wouldn't have. Even the biggest men know who to "line up" and who not to!

I say that to say this, when we serve and minister to people, no matter if they are a 1%er, and if you don't know what that is, look it up, or to a poor old homeless drunk, we need to show them respect, not being condescending towards anyone, and especially not in their home!!! And that's what Set Free's have always been about and will always be, as long as I am at the helm, and that's what we have done twice now, once at the World Famous Boot Hill Saloon and again at No Name, and because of our actions, God HAS blessed us!

So yesterday, about 10 regular Set Free people descended upon the No Name, with this courageous humility, and not only were we well received but 40 more came out to worship with us, some for that specific purpose, but many others came out of the bar to listen. With these godly traits I've mentioned, if you add unconditional love into the mix, people are not only going to pay attention, but they will get saved, and that's what we are all about.

It looks like this outreach will turn into a once a month gig for Daytona Set Free!!!

There will be no Bible Study this Wednesday, so we'll see you next Sunday, at 9:50am!!!

We are starting then to collect Blankets, new or used, socks, stocking hats, gloves and more shoes for "A Closer Walk Ministry" to give out to our local homeless here, so if you want to participate, please bring them to the church or call me. (386) 690-6290 Don't miss this opportunity to give!

Also, to our out of town/state people that have asked about donating money to Set Free, we will have a paypal account set up soon for that purpose, or you can mail a check to:

Set Free Church 201 Osceola Ave Daytona Beach, FL 32114

We thank you in advance.

Real quick, 2 more things. 1st we are sitting up an Administration Team to help pray about, put together, and solicit places for more outreaches, and 2nd, we are putting together a Set Free Posse, those who will commit to going out with us on these missions. If you are faithful, whether you are a believer or not or a Set Free regular or not, and we can count on you to roll with us into these places, let me know! It will entail setting up for the service and just hanging out!!!

Don't forget the beginning of the Real Men's Ministry on January 11th at Jakob's Well, 132 N. Beach St. Daytona!!!

God Bless, Cochise, Pastor Set Free Daytona

Psalm 84:10

Saturday, November 23, 2013

November 27th 6PM

Set Free Daytona Thanksgiving Meal!!!

Beans, Cornbread & Koolaid ONLY!!!

Please come join us!!!

My Sis!

Update on my sister, Suanne. The mass in her throat is what they refer to as stage 3, but 3 doctors say even though it is cancerous, that it appears to have not spread, and they are trying to reduce it with chemo and radiation to the point they will not have to operate. The trach is causing her some difficulties. She got choked one day this week, and lost her oxygen and passed out, hitting her head on the sink, causing a huge hemoglobin to form, and stopping her from getting the 1st radiation treatment, though she is doing chemo now. This news, though saddens me, is good news. With this thing being wrapped around her vocal cords, surgery would be risky on her ever talking again. She can't now, but praying she will after the shrinkage. Please keep the faith with us. We don't have to beg God to met her needs, He knows, we just need to have BIG Faith in this. So to ALL my friends, whether believers or not, please just keep on with what you're doing for her, prayers, good thoughts/vibes or whatever you do. I, and I know she does, appreciate it. Big Love!!!

Coming Across The Bridge!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Where I Live!!!

Set Free Daytona

Just getting my feet back under me from a long 2 1/2 days at the Florida Baptist Convention in Jacksonville. It was good for the soul, as we heard some great preaching and singing while there, but it wore me out, LOL!!!

So back to what God wants us to do here at Set Free, and implementing some of what we learned at the FBC to aid us in boosting our plans for future outreach.

This Sunday, is our "My Hope America" service!!! We are fired up about what God is going to do in the hearts of His people and those who are seeking Him on this special day. Service starts at 10am sharp, with music and testimony, then a 23 minute video from Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, that will open your eyes to some people who are hurting and need to hear about the Lord Jesus. GREAT things are going to happen at Set Free, Sunday November 17th, please BE HERE!!!

Last week's service was "Over The Top", in my humble opinion, it was the best service we have had to date, of course I expect each Sunday to top the previous, as I expect this Sunday's to do, as well!!! But last week we broke a couple of records, like the "largest offering we have ever had", and the attendance was the best (other than when we had the 45 come in on top of us back in September, and took us up to 80 plus), and we had a record number of visitors, praise God!!!

Here at Set Free we are thickening the launch pad, readying for "Take Off", and your attendance, prayers and giving are aiding us in doing so. Please be here this Sunday for another God anointed service!!! I promise you, that you "WILL" be blessed

God Bless, Cochise, Pastor Set Free Daytona

Psalm 84:10

II Cor 9:6-15

Remember this:

Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:

“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

Don't forget the Sons Of Gods M/C Christmas Toy Run on November 24th @ The White Eagle Lounge!

Billy Graham

As we approach this coming Sunday's, "My Hope America" service, I am reminded of people in my past that were critical of Billy Graham. They were Independent Baptist and a few Ultra Fundamentalist Southern Baptist (along with many Hardcore Conservatives, Pentecostals, Charismatics, and the Inter Denominational/Non Denominational folks) that believed Mr. Graham was not an ambassador for Christianity!!!

I heard one preacher call him a "wine bibber", because he had been told that the great evangelist had drink a glass of wine with some Jewish leaders when he was visiting Israel. The same guy called him a "hippy" because Rev. Graham's hair was "too long" for his taste.

This jarred me to the bone!!!

I recall as a child watching Billy Graham on TV, and some nights I would get aggravated because we only had one station and when he did his week long crusades, I had no choice but to watch, and as a kid, I'd rather be watching something else, BUT even as a small boy some of his message would get through my resistance and it caused me to realize that this man was passionate about what he was saying and doing. So even though I wasn't a "fan", I was a "fan", and later in life, to hear another man of God (ahem) "slam" Billy Graham, flew all over me.

I'm sending this out because maybe you too have heard some nonsense about, or someone criticizing (maybe you have done it as well) Mr. Graham, or perhaps you don't like him. Well, it doesn't matter if we like him or anyone else, or the way they do things, what matters is this , "Is Billy Graham PREACHING the Word of God?" Can anyone with a clean heart say he isn't?

Of course not!!!

Some people frown at what we call mass evangelism, as this is what Billy does, but it works. I don't know the exact number, but I can say assuredly that millions have been saved from his messages of hope in Jesus. And just like in the majority of our churches, NOT ALL stick, but it doesn't make their decision any less important.

Billy Graham IS a man of character, with a pure heart and an undying desire, even at the age of 95, to reach this "lost world" for Jesus Christ, and we should honor Christ by supporting this servant of God's, by not belittling him or his ministry, but by praying and partnering up with him to win our city to Jesus!!!

So please come out and support this day. Bring friends and family. Pray, even right now, for many souls to be moved closer to our Heavenly Father through this service. I'm believing many, many will be changed this coming Sunday, are you believing also!!!

Mark 9:38-41

Whoever Is Not Against Us Is for Us

Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”

“Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.

God Bless, Cochise, Pastor Set Free Daytona

Psalm 84:10

Set Free People, Please Share!!!

Friday, November 8, 2013

For My Local Pastor Brothers

One of the projects that was afforded to me, through studying church plants, was trying to touch base with as many local pastors as I can. (First, let me say that this isn't a letter of solicitation, I don't work like that!!!) Thankfully, we have this avenue, e-mailing and social media that makes it much easier, though I prefer face to face contact, for now, this is about all I can afford to do.

As a newby in your association, I want you to know a little bit about me and my heart. After people meet me, their first impression, many times, and echoed to others is, that I am just "rough around the edges", and I guess I am. I don't try to be, but apparently I come across like that. Sometimes my dry sense of humor comes off as, well, let me just say, it's not interpreted in the way it's meant, and also I am a plain talker, and that blows the skirt up on some of the more formal people in our faith camps! (See what I mean..........just making a funny my friends!!!)

I try very hard to listen to the Lord God, and speak what He wants me to say, though at times, I like Paul, inject my own thoughts into a few of my messages. Thank God, as I age, those are getting farther apart. It's at those times, the flesh is gratified for one (me), but it can rub many others raw (the listeners). In 1985, when I started preaching, up till about 1990, it didn't matter to me if people liked what I said or not (me listening to those Independent Baptist preachers that I was surrounded by in Bible College, didn't help that sour attitude of mine). But one day the Holy Spirit got a hold of me, (after speaking at the KY Evangelism Conference, I still can't believe that happened in my life, as I was a nobody). Any way, God spanked and humbled this old boy on the drive home for the way I was coming across to people, and that propelled me to simmer down a bunch, and I had to, as God was putting it into my heart to plant a "Come As You Are" church in the town where I was now living.

Believe me when I say, back in 1992, (when I actually got the church up and running), it wasn't popular starting and pastoring a non traditional community of believers. Honestly, it was HARD. Because I didn't tag the church name with the word Baptist, my home church pastor and my best friend (a Baptist pastor that I went to college with and preached many times for, and spent several nights in his home), turned their backs on me, and even wrote the KY State Baptist paper criticizing what I was doing. On launch day, I still had 15 revivals booked in Baptist churches (as I was in full time evangelism), but after the launch and me baptizing 3 people that night in the Ramada Inn swimming pool (I didn't know a newspaper person and photographer was there, as the motel had called them, and a picture of me baptizing a man was on the front page of the paper the next morning), I lost them all (the booked revivals) but 3. My friend in ministry scolded me. Said I had no "right to baptize" those people. They took me to task for not having a "mother" church, (I truly didn't know about this). I was ostracized by those closes to me, my college friends, my mentors, my buddies, and what I felt at the time, my denomination. I became the most popular Baptist in town, but for the wrong reason, and it devastated me and my confidence in many, EXCEPT God, who I know was in this, even though it was unorthodox at the time.

I was the sermon subject of many preacher's messages, of all denominations, practically every Wednesday night. Funny thing was, their people would come to visit our church after the pastors peaked the people's curiosity, and our new visitors would tell me this, and many stayed with us. They were told that l was the devil himself, but in the mean time we lead hundreds to Christ and baptizing 90% of those. It was a shame those professions of faith and baptisms were not recorded by the SBC, because though my hair was long and I was back wearing black leather, I was still a Baptist!!!

I tell you this, because it was those difficult days of ministry that caused me to become distant from other pastors/preachers. I knew I was doing what the Lord Jesus wanted me to do, so I became basically a Lone Wolf in the ministry, well honestly, I became an Alpha Male Lone Wolf, like never before, and I reckon some of that is still in me, though I truly want to be a team player. So if I come across to you as aggressive or arrogant or whatever you perceive, other than a humble servant of Christ's, I'm sorry, as I am trying to fit "back" in.

I pastored that church for almost ten years, and that was about 4 years to long. I should have given the reigns over to some one else after about 5 years, but I didn't have enough faith to believe it would go on without me. O how weak I was to believe it was all about me. My faith wasn't even the size of that "famous" mustard seed, so I stayed, and ended up having a heart attack, at the age of 43. In August of 1998, I had 5 by passes done on my heart. I was blessed to have lived, as men that age, who experience massive heart attacks, usually don't, as their heart muscle is still strong, but the veins are closed, and the heart keeps pumping, until it literally explodes. I should have left before then, and definitely afterward, but I stayed, and though the church was not declining I was, spiritually, until I burnt out in 2000, and backed up on God. Constantly working with the poor and hurting that can't give or help really took a toll on my family and me. (By the way, Set Free KY is still alive and going!!!)

I went back to driving a semi over the road, a profession I was taught as a young man, and after 2 years, I started my own trucking business, and grew it into a very successful and lucrative enterprise, all while doing ministry on my own, through personal soul winning and such. But as the years rolled by, I became less involved in ministry, and though pastoring and evangelism was always burning in the back of my mind, I kept it dormant.

In 2005, I moved to Daytona, something I had wanted to do since 1989. Here I wanted to start another motorcycle ministry, like the one I founded in KY; Soldiers For Christ M/M, or that was my plan, but brothers, as you all are aware of, this place will eat you alive spiritually, if you don't stay filled with the Spirit and in His Word, and it did me.

I caught myself wanting a beer (from hanging around it much of the time at biker events), something the Lord took away from me immediately at salvation, and I succumbed. No, I wasn't a drunk (again), but I drink in public, and those few times I did, crippled my witness, and still does to a slight few here. I started using words that my children had never heard me say, and I would cry over those words, because I knew that wasn't me or God in me. I went on like this for a couple of years, yet I was still witnessing to a few and helping many ministries feed and love the hurting here in New Smyrna Beach and Edgewater, and though I attended a few churches, I wasn't faithful to any church, per say.

In 2010, the Holy Spirit sent an old church member I pastored back in the mid 80's here to see me, thanks to facebook. I was taken back by this visit. The last time I saw him, and only briefly, was in 1996 or 97, as he visited Set Free in KY, and I don't really remember much about that, as I was on my spiritual decline at that time. Anyway, Jimmie Webb from Ky came to see me, a man he still calls his pastor, and while we were walking on the beach, he said, while picking up a sea shell like a small child would, "What are you doing anyway?".

Let me tell you brothers, I KNEW immediately what he meant!!! He wasn't talking about a secular job or anything of that nature. God was asking me that question, through an old country boy, dressed in bib overalls and a big black cowboy hat in white tennis shoes on New Smyrna Beach, "Jim Powell, COCHISE, what are you doing for ME!!!" And it brought me back into reality, of what He had called me to do 25 years ago, and that was to be a soul winner, a preacher, a evangelist and a pastor to a hurting and dying world. That next morning as Jim and Edith left my house, I fell to my knees and asked God to forgive me and I rededicated my life to serving him the rest of my life, and by His grace I am going to, regardless of what anyone thinks about me.

I know I'm saved, I know I was set apart for His service, I know who has Their hand on me, and whether I'm received by men, either lost or saved, or whether I fit in or not, I AM back, and I AM "Ignorance On Fire" for Him, like I use to be, and I AM going to do everything within my "faith" and strength to win people to Christ, I AM going to invite people to ask God to create within them a "Clean Heart", I AM going to continue to be the pastor to this community of misfits, including the bikers, doing their funerals, weddings and praying and sharing at their parties and I AM going to love, reach out to, and accept any and all that "whosoever" will come to Him, as my brothers and sisters. I AM, because HE IS!!!

It was in God's plans for Walter Allen to share with Director Of Mission's Marty about me. I had been doing Bible Studies, actually preaching in my home since Jimmie's visit. I started a Bible Study at the 1st Turn Tiki Bar and one at a local tattoo shop. I was back doing revivals in some small non denominational churches, and helping an old college classmate plant a church in Benton, KY ( I spent 10 weeks there helping in the Fall of 2011). I was active in a black congregation, here in New Smyrna, with feeding the homeless at Pettis park twice a week, and not only sharing food that I had prayed in, but also the Word!!! God was blessing my efforts and I was so grateful to be back in the fold, but I truly needed a place where I could teach others how to reach out and invite people to Christ, and BAM, it happened. Thank God for the Halifax Baptist Association and for Bro. Marty, for their love and support!!!

I know this is getting long, my intention was not to bore you my brothers in Christ, but to let you know a little about me, other than what you've been told or perceived from the "secular" magazine I put out.

In closing, 2 things! First, I was saved as an outlaw biker, which isn't a big deal today, but it was back then. Today it seems every man that was a biker that got saved becomes a minister or starts a M/M or becomes an evangelist (it's easier today thanks to men like Barry Mason (RIP) a former Hells Angel and yes even me), but back then we were trophies, that's why I think I got to preach at the KY Baptist Evangelism Conference in 1990, with about 2,500 people present. I was as hardcore as you could be, bitter at the world, a no account husband and a weak father to my children, an embarrassment to my one surviving parent and family, BUT when He drew me to Jesus I got delivered, and am still delivered. I was on a roller coaster ride, spiritually, for about 5 years, but I'm satisfied with where He has me right now, Set Free Daytona Beach, a Baptist Church!!!

Secondly, I am not a physical beggar, though I was a spiritual one for many years as a bankrupted and destitute lost man. If you ever hear me ask (and I was influenced to do so in the beginning of this church plant, and I may have at one of our meetings, though it went against the grain of my spirit) for money, you have permission to hit me right in the eye. That is NOT me!!! I am a man of faith and believe what God starts, He will provide, so don't think for a moment that this is what my e-mail to you is about. I don't want your money!!! Besides, if it's not given cheerfully and by the prompting of the Holy Spirit, then it's not a real deal to me, or Him.

I told many of you at one meeting that when I started Set Free KY, I saved my money from revivals, and through not celebrating Christmas, by not exchanging gifts or buying any for my children for 2 years, I launched that work and by God seeing how important it was to my family, and by our sacrifice and obedience, he provided everything we needed to keep it going. We fed thousands without one penny given outside of our Sunday tithes, Set Free KY saw hundreds get saved (at one of our parking lot outreaches in a small KY town we had 70 people get saved, and the majority went to local churches for baptism and membership, something I am proud of), I baptized 90% of those we lead to Christ in our city. We bought an old Methodist church and refurbished it without asking for one red cent. Our people gave out literally hundreds of new mittens, sock caps and coats to inner city and poor country kids every Winter, with only one outside donation (my heart doctor, $100, and Bianca prayed that in).

We started a M/M that went and still is nation wide that was the epitome of all M/M's, as we were known as the 1%ers of the Christian bikers, WITHOUT compromising our Christian Character!!! We did more than hand out tracts and cold water, which there is nothing wrong with that, rather we camped with them, feed them, many times 2 meals a day, and held full blown worship services for the thousands who attended, and they loved us, and many came to Christ. We actually had a young man drive from eastern TN to western Ky and paid $30 entry fee to come in and meet the Soldiers and for me to lead him to Jesus. That was a long ride, but he made it, because he wanted to know us and the Jesus we preached and lived. Right in the middle of the Barbarossa M/C's campground I lead him to Christ, through the Word!!!

When I purchased another Harley, as my home church told me to sell the one I had when I got saved ???, to start the M/M, I had to borrow the money, and without any past or projected income, (they don't cotton to much to "I live by faith" as collateral), I paid 32% interest on a $6,000 loan, which some how God paid off in less than a year (I still don't know that happened, but it was like someone was making secret payments to the finance company without me knowing it, I think, because one day I went to make a payment, and they said it was paid for). I can give a hundred testimonies on how He provided, and He will continue, so...........

What can you do for Set Free and me, nothing really, for you have done enough by allowing us to use the building (Thank You Jesus), but if you want to help, just pray for us, if we cross your mind, and for my families move from Edgewater to Daytona Beach. I'm not a spring chicken anymore, and with 15 years on 5 by passes, I don't do as well as I should on moving objects, so lift this up, that He won't let any thing happen to me physically and that my wife and I both, as well as our 11 year old daughter has the strength to get it done.

That's it!!! I pray for you all right now to be as blessed as I am!!! And I pray that I see you all soon, and we will recognize each other as "Brother's In The Lord", amen!!!

God Bless, Cochise, Pastor Set Free Daytona

Psalm 84:10

If you would like to be removed from my e-mails, please let me know, as I plan on sending you men an update on our ministry from time to time, and would like one from you as well, if it so pleases you. I got your e-mails from FBC site, hope that's ok.

Also, many pastors didn't have e-mails on the site, so feel free to share this with them if you want.

Cochise From One Mountain Climber To Another

Saturday, October 19, 2013

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Closet Christian

By Howard E Wright

What is a "closet Christian?" The story is told of a new Christian who worked with a crew of wicked people during the Summer. When he got back to his church, his fellow Christians asked him how he did in his Christian witness. His answer was the answer of a "closet Christian." He told them, "I did great! They never found out I was a Christian!"

There are many things that are worse than losing our jobs, our fame, our houses and lands, our retirement benefits, our standing in the community or even our very lives. To not live up to your God-given convictions, is to play the hypocrite. Furthermore, you are not only cheating others of an opportunity to have God's love, joy and peace extended to them, but you are also cheating yourself out of being the wonderful person you really are. You are not being true to yourself, your God or your neighbor. Not only this, you are also jeopardizing your chances of going to Heaven.

Jesus said to His disciples as recorded in Mark 8:38, "Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels." This is also found in Luke 9:26. Paul said in Romans 1:16 that he was not "ashamed of the gospel of Christ" and in 2 Timothy 4:7 and 8 he says he "kept the faith" and was looking forward to a "crown of righteousness" given to him and all those who "love His appearing."

Hummmmmmm!!!

From the moment we wake up in the morning to the moment we lie down to sleep at night, how does the death of Christ on the cross transform every single detail of our day? How does the cross compel daily disciplines like prayer and Bible reading or a regular routine of fasting and worship? How does the cross change the way we view our jobs and vocations throughout the day as well as the way we rest and relax at the end of the day? What, if any, unique effect does the cross have on the ways we spend our time, set our priorities, make our decisions, and love our neighbors? How does the cross change the way we view food and exercise, sports and entertainment in this world? The Bible says, "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). ~ David Platt

Set Free Church Daytona Beach Thought

I feel the Lord keeps pressing me to say these words to whomever will read or hear them, "It's not about you!" Self is a faith killer, a divider between man, any man or woman, and God. Self is not as important as Him. Who is first in your life? Whose feelings are more important? Who do we really want to please? SEEK YE!!!! ◄ Zephaniah 2:3 ► Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the LORD's anger. ◄ Isaiah 55:6 ► Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. ◄ Amos 5:4 ► This is what the LORD says to Israel: "Seek me and live; ◄ Amos 5:6 ► Seek the LORD and live, or he will sweep through the tribes of Joseph like a fire; it will devour them, and Bethel will have no one to quench it. ◄ Matthew 6:33 ► But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ◄ 1 Chronicles 16:11 ► Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. ◄ Psalm 105:4 ► Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. ◄ Luke 24:5 ► In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? ◄ Isaiah 34:16 ► Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.

Set Free Daytona Beach, FL In Ft. Myers!!!

Church @ The Boot Hill Saloon!!!

Worker of Iniquity

Set Free Church Daytona Beach, FL

Deceived!!! Try Those TV Spirits & Your Friends Advice!!!

The Boot

Shared the Gospel, "Dear Lord Create In Me A Clean Heart", to about 65 people at The Boot Hill Saloon, on Main St., Daytona Beach, FL!!!

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Dead Brides Make For Long Nights!!!

ARISE ye sleepy, lethargic people that are attending a place of worship, that barely has a pulse!!! Get up & get out!!! Tell your community about how great God is, and that Jesus is still in the saving business......................drawing men, women, boys & girls to Him, through the sweet Holy Spirit!!! Quit following man (pastors) that are only concerned for their well being, and get to pursuing GOD!!!

Thursday, July 11, 2013

LOL

Many of today's prophets, predict your future or tell of your past by judging your outward appearance. They always say I have a rough edge. Really!

Monday, May 20, 2013

God Don't Like Boxes

I get so tired of certain Christians & Denominations that put God in a box, and dogmatically preach that He HAS TO do certain things. One of those is He HAS TO heal you!!!

They say that "because of his stripes WE ARE healed"!!! Even when I was a baby Christian and read this, I knew what Peter was talking about (I Peter 2:24), and that was salvation!!! But the Charismatics will ARGUE with you all day about that Scripture and what it means, as they believe that it teaches through Jesus' death we are all healed of any physical problems, (also found in Isaiah 53:5).

Hey I believe God wants to instantly heal His people, BUT He sometimes chooses not to!!! Healing comes in one of three ways; 1) Miraculously 2) Medicinally 3) Mortally (the ultimate healing!!!). God has and can heal instantly, as we have read in the Bible, and have seen with our very own eyes, or I have seen it. He has also healed people through doctors and medicine! And of course the Lord has taken some people on home to be with Him!

So why do people get upset when I say that God doesn't always choose to heal through a super natural way? I mean He didn't heal Paul of his "thorn in the flesh" (II Corinthians 12:7-9), which Paul asked Him to do 3 times. You ever wonder why Paul only asked 3 times? Because he got an answer, "My grace is sufficient for thee", said God. Nothing makes me more irritated than some unknowing holier than thou person, saying "you just don't have faith to believe in your healing", or "you're not receiving your healing", "etc"!!! These make you feel guilty when you are ill or crippled!!! Yet the truth of the matter is, they get in the corner and wipe and slang snot, take aspirins, cold medicine, go to doctors & the ER just like everyone else!!!

How many of you remember who wrote the Book of Acts? Dr. Luke, Paul's personal physician!!! That's right, the great apostle Paul, a man who possessed healing power THROUGH God the Holy Spirit, had a doctor as one of, if not his closes traveling companion!!! But it tells us in II Timothy 4:20, "Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletus SICK". Whereas God often heals the sick, through physicians or without them, it is not the case in all situations, as recorded HERE!!!

Also, one of Paul's peers, Epaphroditus was seriously ill for some time (Philippians 2:25), but Paul nor Luke were able to instantly heal him either. If it were God's will that ALL be healed, surely Paul would have been able to heal both Trophimus & Epaphroditus!! So when people tell me I'm sick or someone else is ill BECAUSE of a lack of faith (and that may be true, sometimes), and then proceed to grab me and start praying for my ailment, and because I'm NOT instantly healed, they make me feel less of a Christian, I just smile at their ignorance and pray to God, for this thorn in my flesh to be gone, if so, I praise Him, and if not I praise Him.

Remember God has been served through ignorant men, which I have been and may still be one of those, BUT He isn't served through ignorance!!! If and when I get sick, please contact my pastor and the elders of the church (James 5:14) and ask them to pray for me and come anoint me with oil, BUT also contact my doctor, for He uses them as well. Never put God in a box and tell Him what to do.

There is only one place in the Bible were God says, "TRY ME", and that's in Malachi 3:10 and He's talking about money, not healing, but that's another sermon!!!

Let Them Eat Other Wild Animals

Ezekiel 34:5 So they were scattered because there was no shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild animals.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Living for Jesus

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”

As I read these verses I think about the change that overtook Paul after his conversion. He was no longer driven by selfish ambition, he was a changed man. Paul was convinced that Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for our sin. This is the message he took everywhere. As a result of knowing this, he couldn’t live his life for himself anymore.

Paul lived for Jesus Christ because he believed that he has died with Christ (Romans 6:6, 11). He believed that dying with Christ meant that he should live for Jesus (Galatians 2:20).

His heart was changed. He had a new focus. It was all about living for Jesus and pouring himself out for others (2 Timothy 4:5-7).

How about you? Has your life changed since you came to Christ? Have you got a new reason to live? Are you living for Jesus today?

For me reading the Bible was much easier when I started in the New Testament. I recommend starting in the Gospel of John, the 4th Book. Then into Acts (shows you how the church was started and spread), Romans, “JAMES”, Ephesians, Galatians, Philippians, Colosians. Then back to Matthew or Luke. Just read the Word, and it will keep you straight.

Be Aware you have Pastors and many Christians here in the “Community of Faith”, that are available for you. We may not know all the answers, but we serve a God that does, and we can pray for and with you about “anything” that may arise in your walk with Christ. I Corinthians 10:13. Romans 8:26

God Bless,

Pastor Cochise RADICAL Minister For Jesus Christ

Preparing Your Testimony

A testimony can be a great way to share your faith as a Christian. I find that people like hearing your story and how knowing Jesus has changed your life. When I share about my testimony I touch on three main areas.

1. My life before Christ – I share things like how I felt, my illness, what sort of things I was in to, my upbringing and the sense of emptiness I had inside. These things set the scene.

2. My conversion – I then share how I came to Jesus. I talk about how I was feeling before coming to Jesus, the people who helped me, the tract I read, the prayer I prayed and the story of Jesus coming to die on the cross for me.

3. How my life has changed – In this final section I share how knowing Jesus personally has changed my whole life and outlook. I talk about the love, acceptance, hope, joy and purpose I now feel inside.

These three things really help me to structure my story and how Jesus’ story impacted and changed my life.

It really helps me to keep on track when telling people about Jesus. I hope it works for you too.

The Four Purposes Of Church

I was doing some reading about church this week. In the book “Introducing Christian Doctrine” it talked about the four main purposes or activities of the church. I found it interesting so I thought I would share it.

Purpose 1 Evangelism – Jesus last words to His followers was “Go and make disciples…” (Matthew 28.18-20). Therefore, if the church is to be faithful to Jesus’ last words and bring joy to His heart, it must be a church that reaches out to others.

Purpose 2 Edification – The second major purpose of the church should be edification. In Ephesians 4.11-12 the Apostle Paul talked about God giving gifts to the church to equip and build up the body of Christ. That is, he wants us to build up and encourage each other.

Purpose 3 Worship – Another activity of the church is worship. Where edification focuses of building each other up, worship focuses on the Lord. We see in the Book of Acts that early church met together on the first day of each week to worship the Lord.

Purpose 4 Social Concern – The final purpose of the church to show concern for those around them. The faithful church must take action where it sees need, hurts and it must work to right wrongs. Jesus often told parables about about helping others in need and how He expected us to do the same (Matthew 25.35-40, Luke 10.25-37).

The book summarized that these points and said for the church to be spiritually healthy it must carefully balance these four major functions.

It said in short the church members must meet together to build each other up and worship the Lord, and then move out into the world to reach people for Christ and help those in need.

Lessons From All

If we had the reverence towards God that the Catholics have. If we had the excitement towards God that the Charsmatics have. If we had the tenacity of the Jehovah Witness'. If we had the practice of “using our spiritual gifts” that the Assembly of Gods have. If we had the heart for missions like the Baptist have. If we had the discipline the Amish have. If we had faith in our Church Leaders that the Mormons have. If we had the belief that the Holy Ghost could and would heal like the Pentecostals have. If we had the indwelling and constant filling of the Holy Spirit preached to us and we had faith in Him as our Counselor, Comforter and Companion as many Independents have. If we................ ….............................could combine a little bit of each of these branches of Christianity into one Body of Believers, we would “shake the earth” off of it's axles. If we had that much faith in God, He would be so pleased that He couldn't but help to stomp His foot and say AMEN!!! I am finally glorified, worshipped and honored by my people. Many born again believers in Jesus Christ DO HAVE several of these God attributes interwoven into their faith walk, but our goal should be to HAVE IT ALL!!!!

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Monday, April 8, 2013

That's Right!!!

Acts 3:6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong.

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Trained To Serve

Cut & Paste in New Window For Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVLOz1u2xK0

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Heaven

What are you banking on getting you into Heaven after you cross over the river of death? The fact you did more good than bad, in this life? Attending & giving money to an organized religious establishment? Your acknowledge of God? You own a couple of Bibles? You went to VBS as a child or a youth camp? Your parents & grand parents are Christians? You don't drink, smoke, or chew, nor date girls who do? All of this is great, BUT......................there is only one thing that assures you a place in one of those mansions, Jesus is preparing for His own, and it's this..........."For whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord Jesus, SHALL be saved"..............FAITH IN HIM..............."For we are saved by faith, NOT of works............."

Monday, April 1, 2013

Church

An institution can point you to a relationship with the Father, but it cannot take His place. Feeling good about your intercourse with God, through church attendance, Bible reading and nose pinching prayers is not what a relationship is all about. He wants us to walk with Him, communicate with Him and live IN Him continually & consistently ..................and that is what brings that feeling..........or that peace that DOES pass all understanding and that lasts!!! ~ Pastor Cochise

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Right On!!!

I have told u these things, so that n me u may have peace. N this world u will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.

Yes!!!

Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, give me renewed hope and cheer.

Amen!!!

A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. (Psalm 34:19)

Monday, February 11, 2013

How Revival Truly Comes!!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1a3QAhro6VU

Why are you in this?

Even though the captain of the ship asked Jonah what his occupation was, it doesn't mean preaching is an occupation, rather it's a CALLING!

The Cross!

When you carry the cross, it is a one way trip!!!

Saturday, February 9, 2013

Set Free Church

Are you? Want to be?

Friday, February 8, 2013

Restored!!!

I'm sick of this low living. I am a child of "the" King, His rich, red, royal, redemptive blood runs through my forgiven veins..........though humbled to be His, I'm proud He's mine. I ruined my witness here for over 5 years, I'm sick about it......................I knew better. I made a fool of myself, and shamed my beliefs. I'm so sorry for all I did, but those days are behind me..........I'm back & have been for 3 years now, to being that adoptive child to the King of kings. Forgive me Lord & all of you who saw me at my worse.

Hades Isn't Hell

When a man dies his body goes back to the earth from which it came, his life (breath) stops, then his spirit, the one thing that separates us from other animals & that lives eternally, will go to a place called Hades. Hades isn't Hell, rather it is a realm for disembodied spirits, and there are 3 parts of Hades, 1, is Paradise, that's were Jesus told the thief on the cross that repented and asked for forgiveness would go, and Jesus said to him, that today he (the thief) would be with Him in paradise. (Luke 23:43). 2, is a place of torment, that's where the rich man went when he refused to help Lazarus (read Luke 16). Lazarus went to Paradise, the rich man went to the place of torment. Neither had bodies but they recognized each other, and the rich man even saw Abraham there. 3, there was a great gulf that separated the 2 places, and they could not cross to and from. They made the choice to be where they are, by what they did while alive here on earth. Neither of these places are the permanent abiding place of the dead, they are both a foretaste of what each will encounter after the second coming of Christ, when our spirit will be reunited with our bodies, as the grave gives them up. Those now in Paradise will be taken to the Judgement seat of Christ, and judged for their actions after they were saved, (II Corinthians 5:10) and then they will enter into a new Heaven (Garden Of Eden), where there will be no pain, no sorrow, no tears,etc. Those in the place of torment will be taken from there to the Great White Throne judgement, and this is where they will see that their names WERE NOT written in the Lambs Book Of Life (Revelation 20) and then cast in to what the Bible refers to as a Lake of Fire. There it is, the simple truth, look it up. ~ Big Love, Cochise

Amos 8:11

Not a famine of food, water, sense or nonsense, but a famine of the Word will one day come. A day when there will be no more comfort nor hope, as those who believe will be killed or gone, though He will leave a small remnant, but they will be few................and when IT all comes tumbling down, there will no place to go, no comfort, no sympathy, no place to hide......................for 7 years. Men want men like me to shut up, and one day I and all others will. The "real" church will be no more!!! Just buildings, with no Spirit & no Rest...........filled with seekers, but nothing to be found. How will it feel to experience a famine of hearing the words of the Lord? Peace ~ Cochise P.S. Memorize as much Bible as you can, for one day It will be no more. Satan is sitting up a world stage of puppets, that will work together to rid the earth of all things good, and Bibles will be destroyed..........all you will have if you don't make it out on the first train, is what you have memorized when you where in Vacation Bible School or the couple of times you went to church or read a pastor's words. But why wait until it's to late..............seek Him now, while He may be found & accept His promises. II Corinthians 1:20 "For every one of God's promises are "YES" in Him". ~ James (Not Joel)

Thursday, January 10, 2013

What Is The Gospel?

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures" (1st Corinthians 15:1-4).

WORD!!!

Matthew 11:29-30, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Think About It!!!

I don't know how many of you folks are aware of this here on Face Book, but I get numerous e-mails, cochise@cochisechops.com , text messages (386) 690-6270, and private (sometimes public) messages from several people weekly wanting help or I should say ministering to, or prayer.
I want you to know that I don't mind that one bit, that's what I'm here for.......................I am a licensed counselor in the state of Indiana, unless it's expired..................I've taught the 12 step program, I've done grief counseling to marriage counseling (which is they same, sometimes :)...........I have prayed with people who are and are not Christian.
I've lead thousands to a saving relationship, with God, or as us old timers say, I've helped them make their peace with the Man upstairs, as I have my next door neighbor..........that's dealing with a terminal disease...............I have lead some to that saving knowledge to right on here..................That is my JOB!!! I LOVE IT...........yet,
How much more could myself and others do, if we had a building for ministry??? I told someone earlier, that if my friends "here" would take what they spend on drinks for one week, it would pay for us to have a place of ministry, counseling & a place to worship, do the 12 step, do the salvation deal.......................help those in need....................think about that.
Maybe, just maybe...........the good Lord wants some of you to lay down some of your "jack" for a week of making you feel good, to make it possible to help others feel good about themselves.
Many of you have kids that are rebelling....................I can help you. Marriage problems? I can help!
To God, obedience & sacrifice go hand in hand, maybe some of you will listen, respond and share this writing. I have been approached by a group that wants me to start a "Biker Church" here, and I'm all for it, but IT WOULD BE SO MUCH MORE.
I hear money is tight, BUT I KNOW BETTER!!! There is money here in this area, but people are holding on to it, WHY? For a rainy day? I've lost 5 brothers to death in 18 months, all of them had money.........and it went to people that will do they same with it, while others are in dire need.
Do you trust me, have I proven myself? Hold on to that money, and watch your kids go down the drain. Watch as good people are dying without someone to hold their hand, and pray for them, and cry for them.................watch as people slip off into eternity, while we sit in the bars, and drop more in a week, than a descent place would rent for......................not trying to scold anyone, but if you take it that way....................so be it, cause I didn't mean it that way.
I think it's time to shit or get off the pot here in this area. You want me? You need me? I WANT AND NEED YOU, and so do your children and some who are dying........................mostly from depression. They don't do bars, they can't afford to eat out...............they have no where to go for fellowship and to assimilate (a major problem here)..............let's make a place for them.
God Bless, Pastor Cochise (Could Be Yours) , and I love you folks, I really do, from the bottom of my heart, and I love my calling.
Think about it!!! Share this if you like.........................or de-friend me. I'm not a bum, I pay my way, but some can't..................will you help.....................Prayerfully? Physically? AND YES FINANCIALLY? If someone can leave a million dollars to Michael Ballard at the Full Throttle Saloon, to keep people entertained........there has to be a few here who can help me!!!
Again Big Love!!!!

More From Face Book

Jason Having a rough time but I've decided to make some changes to better my life and accept god into it to try and guide me to be a better person 9:03pm Cochise Chops Man, I just mentioned to my prayer partner on the phone, not less than 30 minutes a go, about us meeting and we just prayed for you. Unbelievable, absolutely unbelievable........that's the God I serve. Religion SUCKS, but a relationship through Christ ROCKS!!! God is working on us a place to have a "REAL" Set Free Church even as I type this.........and then the rest will fall into place!!! 9:05pm Jason I appreciate it buddy and yea I might not understand alot of how it works it or how he does things but it's a start for me 9:06pm Cochise Chops I got your back and willing to teach you and others................I need a good man like you around me. 9:07pm Jason As do I I'm making positive moves for me and only moving forward 9:08pm Cochise Chops Amen!!! I have wanted for months to invite you to my home and just hang out with you...........you can ask my wife, she'll tell you, that I have said..................I want to have Jason over.

From Face Book

William Happy New Year to you n yourn the last 3 yrs my life has been n a quagmire but with the favor of God my lifes turning around I just know it 6:43pm Cochise Chops Praise The Lord.............I struggle everyday brother..........I walked deep with the Lord, then let a divorce cause me to back slide.............and I ruined my witness...............working hard on getting it back........Happy New Year, and Be Blessed!!! 6:45pm William Amen Brother !!! 6:45pm Cochise Chops Hope to see you soon.................God Bless. 6:48pm William My bike has been made all brand new with the help of Shadetree Bros I'm looking forward to many road trips I'm hoping to make it to your church this summer 6:48pm Cochise Chops Well, you know, you'll be welcome & a special guest. come on. 6:49pm William Thank You Brother Im looking forward too it 6:50pm Cochise Chops 6:52pm William You don't know this but I love your post about verses n the Bible You COCHISE TOUCH MY LIFE LONG DISTANCE thank you !!! 6:54pm Cochise Chops Man I needed to hear that.......thank you!!! 6:56pm William No THANK YOU!!You are a true Brother and a Man of Men 6:57pm Cochise Chops Man Bill, that means so much to me............several seem to have wrote me off........but maybe they are just sitting back & reading also..............I pray they are.

Don Wood posted to Cochise Chops

Greetings from the hills of Tennessee.. I wanted to take the opportunity to send you a note.. I want you to know that I admire you. Your dedication to your beliefs is an uncommon trait that I find refreshing. You are a positive influence in peoples lives and I see that as honorable and noble. I wish for you the best of what you desire because I know that your reward is not of this world. Unntil we meet again... PEACE&GREASE

2013

Start this year out correctly by making the right decision. Remember it's Jan 1st not April 1st. Big Love~Cochise

OUCH!!!

If we take responsibility for our lives, it can often be a shocking experience because suddenly we have no one to blame! -Joyce Meyers