MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - June 7, 2015

Wayne and Julia went to hold Sunday morning worship with the men at Macon TC. After an awesome time of praise and worship, Wayne began a series on "Biblical Manhood - Biblical Womanhood." Wayne is covering the series in both facilities (West Central and Macon TC) so the men and women know what to look for if they are not already married or to help them be a better spouse when they go home. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 17, 2015

Set Captives Free Ministries worshiped Sunday Morning with the men at Macon Transitional Center. We all clapped and sang in praise of our Glorious King.

Pastor Kevin Humphery shared lessons from Romans 8:27-28.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 3, 2015

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC while I spent the weekend with my grandchildren. After praise and worship, Wayne ministered on "The Hope of His Calling" taking his text from Ephesians 1:15-23. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - April 19, 2015

We had an amazing service at Macon TC with the men. After a great time of praise and worship, Wayne ministered on "How Not to Go Back." He shared statistics on how many percentage wise will probably return to prison. The text was Matt. 12:38-45. He told the men that most people have a fear that they will return to their old ways. In this scripture the spirit in Great stands for moral rationale.

This scripture talks about a clean man, a man who confessed his sins and "cleaned his house." The evil or sinful spirit left. This spirit in the original Greek represents moral rationale (not demon possession).

The Queen of Sheba sacrificed TIME to go see King Solomon. When we give our lives to God, our time is HIS! Wayne read John 15:1-8 about abiding in the Vine. We MUST abide in Christ; not be a casual Christian.

Then he read Matt. 13:22-23. This represents those who have heard the Word but are too thick in the world so unfruitful. Those who received in a good heart are productive.

I Cor. 9:24-27 - The prize represents the souls we win to Christ.

We give our time in study and ministering of God's Word (mentor).

Psalms 1:1-2: Meditate in God's Word.

The Queen of Sheba also packed her camels with wealth. She was willing to give up her wealth. The second way is one of the hardest. When you have your needs met, meet the needs of others to bring them in.

The clean man did not abide in the Vine. He was swept clean but didn't give it all to Christ.

Devote your life to the service of God: time and money.

The last 1/2 hour was spent in discussion and prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - April 5, 2015

We opened up in prayer and praise and worship. All of the men were standing and participating. The Spirit of God was heavy in the room. We could really feel him.

Wayne ministered on "Truth About Death and Resurrection of Christ" Scriptures included Matt. 12:40 where Jesus said He'd be in the grave 3 days and 3 nights; John 19:31 (Lev. 23:5-7); Luke 23:56 and Mark 15:1-2,9
Wayne explained to them when He actually died according to the Jewish calendar and when He arose which would put Him in the grave 3 days and nights since Jesus did not lie.
Wayne also looked at the cross and talked about why Jesus died for us. Then He talked about the wrath of God for sin and the Passover Lamb. We looked at the contrast and how it all worked together. He talked about Jesus in the Garden and what the cup was the Jesus asked His Father to let pass from Him.
Jesus took the wrath of God on the cross that we deserve so we don't have to. We deserve death but because of Christ, He gives us life!!!!
Wayne gave an altar call and then we closed in prayer.

My notes are very long because it was an amazing message but I condensed it because it would have been a lot to read.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Nov. 1, 2015

We joined the men at Macon TC for Sunday morning service. After a time of praise and worship, Wayne showed the Ghana documentary video of Lions Gate on their trip in September.

It's amazing to think that such a great number of people in the world have never heard of Christ.

Acts 12:1-17
There are a lot of guards around Peter. It's the night before he is getting ready to die and he is sleeping. In fact he was sleeping so deeply that the angel had to hit him in the side to get his attention. The chains dropped off, he walked right past the guards and the gate opened. He went to the house of Mary where they were praying for him.
What would have happened if the chains had fallen off and he still sat there? How foolish what that have been? Yet we do that in America today. Jesus died for our sins and broke all those chains yet we still sit in sin.

We sing about our chains being broken, yet are we really free?

We have 6,600 people groups around the world who have never heard of Jesus, yet we sit here in our affluence and "stuff" and don't even care about all of those people destined for hell. If we love God and believe He is coming back, how can we just sit here doing nothing.

We often think we need a lot to help, but we don't. We have to have the love and desire.

If we really have a desire for God, we don't want His Name tarnished. When we get saved, we're not perfect, but it's a walk we're constantly on. We want to draw closer to Him all the time.

When you are constantly seeking to pull others into the Kingdom of God, you won't want to tarnish His Name and you won't end up back in here.

Matt 7:21 - many will cry Lord, Lord but will not enter in because they did not do the will of the Father.

Remember when you had your first date? You wanted to tell everyone. But we don't do that with Christ. So many people put on the "wedding ring" on Sunday morning when they go to church, but take it off the rest of the week.
You have children in your family .... in your neighborhood ... who look up to you. You can make a difference in their life. It's time we grow up. Make a difference so those children will not end up in here. This place is a "wake up" call for you. God is "hitting you in the side." It's time to get those chains off and time to walk out.

Wayne told them that he had some beautiful cars and a beautiful home, but that word is "had." All he has today are some pictures and doesn't have the money he spent on it. Nothing to show for it. If he had used that money for the Kingdom of God, it would have made such a difference.

There was a lot of interaction with the men and discussion. One of the guys brought up that he felt led to talk to the young guys here at MTC. Before he only thought about what he's going to do when he gets out, but now he wants to tell others about Christ.

One of the men asked to play "Break Every Chain" again, which we did, and then closed in prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Sept. 6, 2015

Pastor Elizabeth Smith went to Macon TC this morning to hold service with the men. We started out with prayer and then praise and worship. I then ministered to the men on Micah 7:7-8 with the emphasis being on waiting on God, trusting that He's got you in the palm of His hand and has everything under control. He is an on-time God - never late. Also, keeping our confession of faith and when we stumble (fall), we get right back up. The sin is not in the "stumble" - the sin is in not getting up; staying down in the pigpen of sin. There was a lot of interaction with the men and, if you say to them now "when I fall....." they will reply "I shall arise!!!" It was great service and every man came up front for prayer saying they are tired of falling. We then closed by praying in a circle for each man's needs and for the facility. Praise God for His anointing in the service.

SERVICES AT WEST CENTRAL AND MACON TC FOR JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST.

My apologies to everyone! I have not kept up with the postings of the services due to some health issues and other matters. I am trying to post some of the older services that I have notes for, but most of the notes sent to me did not have a date for the services the notes were for. I am not going to be able to back post most of the services. I will do better from now on. I truly apologize that I did not keep everyone updated on the services. I hope you will understand.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Sept. 20, 2015

Set Captives Free Ministries met with the men at Macon TC for Sunday morning worship. After spending time worshiping and praising God, Wayne Smith ministered on Surviving Suffering taking text from Job 1.
The notes are basically the same as for West Central on Oct, 19. The service was closed with some discussion and prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Sept. 26, 2015

Wayne and Julia met with the men from Macon TC for Bible Study. They started out with praise and worship and then Wayne showed the video of our team in Ghana. They followed by continued study on "How to Study the Bible" with a lot of discussion.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Oct. 4, 2015

Set Captives Free Ministries worshiped with the men at Macon TC for our first Sunday of the month service. We had a great time worshiping and praising God. Afterwards Wayne brought the message on John 3:16. It was essentially the same as the message delivered to the ladies at West Central the night before, except this was geared towards the men. We ended the service with a time of discussion and prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Oct. 18, 2015

Kevin, Sheila and Elizabeth went to MTC for Sunday morning service to worship with the men. Our technology failed us so Kwame led us in a couple of songs and then we sang "Amazing Grace." Several men got up and gave praise reports before Kevin came up to preach on "Thy Brother Will Rise Again" taking his text from John 11. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - March. 15, 2015

With a smile on her face and words of praise on her lips, Pastor Elizabeth Smith led 10 men (2 new) in song. The men prayed, sang, and clapped with joy.

Sheila Stover signed to the song "East from the West."

"Can you be saved and not have any power?" was the question with which Pastor Kevin Humphery opened his sermon from Revelations 12:10-11.
Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 28 and Mar. 1, 2015

Wayne and Julia Smith went to Macon for the weekend holding the Bible Study on Saturday night and then the Sunday morning church service the next day.

After a great time of praise and worship, Wayne opened with Acts 28:3-10 and looked at how Paul was bit by a snake. Figuring that was a pretty bad day, in and of itself, they backed up to Acts 27:39 and looked at how, just before the snake bite, Paul was involved in a shipwreck.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 15, 2015

Wayne and Julia Smith, along with Elizabeth Smith, met with some of the men from MTC for morning service. After opening in prayer, Wayne opened up with Psalms 148 -150:6 on praising God and then we went into praise and worship followed by Wayne ministering on the “Dangers of Not Getting It,” Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Jan. 18, 2015

Wayne, Julia and Elizabeth went to Macon TC for the Sunday morning service. After a time of worship before the Lord, Wayne ministered on Salvation - Being Born Again using text from John 3:1-21. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - 1/4/15

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to hold the Sunday morning service. Stephen Johnson opened up in prayer and lead the praise and worship since it was his last Sunday to be with us. Praise God .... he will be going home!

Wayne ministered on "The Gospel - Believe" (see the notes for West Central on 1/3/15)

He gave the men time to search their hearts and pray. We had time left over so it was opened up to questions and answers. It was a great service.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - 12/21/14

Wayne, Julia and Elizabeth went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. After one of the men opened in prayer, we sang some Christmas songs and then Stephen lead the group in two beautiful worship songs. Wayne then preached from Matthew 2 on "Getting Real with God." Matthew tells us three different times in the 2nd chapter where prophecy was fulfilled and these are three reasons we should celebrate Christ's birth. The message was basically the same as he preached 12/20/14 at West Central.

One man came up front asking for prayer for issues/bondages that he wanted to be free of. We closed the service by singing "My Chains are Gone."

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - 12/7/14

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC for the Sunday morning service. After one of the men opened up in prayer, Stephan lead the praise and worship. Wayne finished up the series on Spiritual Warfare with "Christ and Spiritual Warfare" and "The New Testament Church and Spiritual Warfare." He finished up with a time of questions and answers. They closed with prayer requests and a time of prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - 12/8/14 - CHRISTMAS BAGS

WHAT AN AWESOME DAY! Thank you to everyone who helped this ministry to bless the men at Macon Transitional Center. We were able to take 156 bags consisting of:
Degree Deodorant
Colgate Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Irish Spring bath soap
Suave shampoo
mini legal pad
10 envelopes
1 Bic stick pen
chapstick
candy cane
individually wrapped candy
snack cake
bag of chips

It was such a blessing to be able to hand these bags out and let the men know that God loves them!!! I WISH I HAD A PICTURE OF THE SMILE ON SOME OF THEIR FACES WHEN THEY GOT THE BAG.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – November 16, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to MTC to hold the Sunday morning service. I played two songs on video praise and worship and then Stephen sang some praise music. After the praise and worship, . Wayne shared an article he read online this morning on a study about how money affects people. These men will be getting out soon and things are a lot different. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – November 1, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to MTC to hold the Sunday morning service. I played two songs on video praise and worship and then Stephen sang some praise music. After the praise and worship, . Wayne continued his series on Angels, Demons and Spiritual Warfare. This morning’s message was Spiritual Warfare in the Old Testament.

Demonism and spiritualism was everywhere. Deut. 32:16-17 tells us that the children of Israel provoked GOD to anger with worship of pagans and demons.

Wayne covered seven different scriptures in the OT and summarized. Satan is cunning and smart; he knows who to go to and how to attack. Satan questioned God’s authority and integrity in the OT and he is doing the same today. His first question was “Did God really say?” The same thing is happening in the churches today. Does the Bible really say? Is that what it really means?

Spiritual warfare is a battle for your heart. What voice are you going to listen to? Those who listen to the serpent’s voice are going to feel the serpent’s fangs.

Observations:
1. One thing we do not see is a lot of talk about satan and demons. It is actually minimized even though a demonic world surrounded them. It emphasizes on God.
2. We do see that angels and demons were at work but it focuses more on human responsibility … the problems of our heart. It maximizes human responsibility and sin is not shown as demonic warfare but the sin of the heart.

Conclusion:
1. God is sovereign; Satan is limited in power.
2. The primary human problem is sin.
3. Spiritual warfare is God centered. The answer is repent and turn from your old ways and turn to God.

We don’t see demons cast out in the OT. God is center stage.

Knowing God is in control, we should find joy in all things.

We closed with prayer requests and Wayne prayed.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – October 25, 2014

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC to continue the round table Bible study on “How to Study the Bible.” The men are thoroughly enjoying this time of study.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – October 19, 2014

Kevin and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. Even though a lot of our men have gotten jobs and cannot come, we had 4 new men so we got to enjoy service with 10 amazing men of God. The praise and worship was amazing and the men really turned their praises towards God. Then I turned the service over to Kevin who ministered on “The Words of Your Testimony” using text from Rev. 10:10-11 and Heb. 11:1,6-7,12,17. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – October 5, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to MTC to hold the Sunday morning service. I played two songs on video praise and worship and then Stephen sang some praise music. After the praise and worship, . Wayne continued his series on Angels, Demons and Spiritual Warfare. Tonight’s discussion was on Demons.

He discussed that demons are angels who sinned and are now evil. They are beyond redemption unlike us. Hell is not prepared for man; however, we will go there if we make that choice. Demons will be tormented in hell and those who serve demons will be likened to them and will be tortured with them.

Satan was also an angel created by God – a cherubim. He is spiritual not physical. He is powerful but he is limited. He is limited in space and knowledge. He is not omnipresent and he knows his end is coming, but he doesn’t know when. In his desire to become like God, he is the perfect example of ungoldly. Pride was the foundation of his fall and pride is the core of sin. His name describes who he is … in Hebrew Satan means adversary.

Wayne discussed all of the characteristics of Satan, what he does, how he tempts, how he attacks, the differences between God and Satan, and how Satan and the demons relate to us. He closed by saying “when it comes to Satan, remember that he is limited and he is defeated. Satan wants the glory of God. He cannot steal the glory of God in heaven but he can steal the glory that is due God here on earth.

There was a lot of discussion and interaction.

We then practiced “The Chisel” and the guys loved it. We closed in prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – September 27, 2014

Wayne and Julia went to MTC to continue the monthly Bible Study on “How to Study the Bible.” They have been getting a lot of interaction and good response to the Bible Study. The men seem to really being enjoying it.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – September 21, 2014

Julia, Wayne and I held the Sunday morning service at Macon TC with the men. Attendance is down because so many of our regulars have gotten jobs and have to work on Sunday. We are praying for new men to come in. I played two songs on video praise and worship and then Stephen sang some praise songs. After the praise and worship, Wayne continued his series on Angels, Demons and Spiritual Warfare. This morning’s discussion was on Angels.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER – September 7, 2014

I ministered at Macon TC to 11 of God’s children. I played two songs on video praise and worship and then Stephen and Eric did some praise music. After the praise and worship, I ministered “When I Fall, I Shall Arise” taking the text from Micah 7:7-8. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - August 17, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. The video praise and worship was powerful and all of the men participated but I only played two songs because Stephen lead the men in praise and worship also. We had a new keyboard player named Eric who joined Stephen and it was great. Then Jacob came in and also did a song. The Spirit of God was moving so heavily that men were truly submitting to God. It was an amazing sight to see.

Wayne started a series on Angels, Demons and Spiritual Warfare taking his text from 2 Kings 6.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - August 3, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. The video praise and worship was powerful and all of the men participated. Stephen and Jacob also ministered in song and it was amazing. I then turned the service over to Wayne who brought the message on "Baptism" using text from Acts 2:36-41. So many times we do not understand the true significance of baptism. In some countries it could actually cost you your life and believers do it anyway. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - July 20, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. We had a great service with the 10 men who attended. The praise and worship was really good but then Stephen, one of the residents, sang a special. I asked him if he would take over the praise and worship when he is ready and he happily agreed.

Wayne brought the message on Salvation. He told them that so many different ideas are out there on salvation which makes this a difficult subject but we must know the truth. Martin Luther reached a truth about grace. Today the "grace message" in some realms has gone as far as to say you are "saved by grace" and that's all you need - you don't sin anymore so you can live how you want and you are "covered." Wayne said, "my goal for you is that when you stand before God you will not have excuses."
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - July 6, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. The room was almost full - the highest participation we have had so far. The video praise and worship was powerful and all of the men participated. I turned the service over to Wayne who brought the message on "Prophecy Fulfilled" using text from Rev. 3, Rom 10 and Matt 7. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - June 28, 2014

Wayne and Julia went down to MTC for the monthly Bible Study which is every 4th Saturday of each month. There were 9 men in the Bible Study. The men love to dig into the Word and discuss it. They sat down together opened their Bibles and started discussing questions the men had, problems they've been facing and studying the Bible together. Some of the topics they covered were the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16 and they also discussed swept clean and empty from Luke 11. From there they went to many other scriptures and just "dug into the Word" together.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - June 15, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. The video praise and worship was powerful and all of the men participated. It was actually one of the best praise and worship services we have had at MTC. I turned the service over to Wayne who brought the message on "Building Memories" using text from Philippians 3:1-14. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - June 1, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to hold the Sunday morning service. We had an amazing praise and worship service...the best one we've ever had. Then Wayne brought the message on "Treasures of a Wasted Life" taking his text from Philippians 3:1-14. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 24, 2014

Wayne and Kenny Nicely went to Macon TC to minister with the men. Since we hold two Sunday morning services down there, Wayne has started doing Bible Study on the fourth Saturday. The men love to dig into the Word and discuss it. They sat down together opened their Bibles and started discussing questions the men had, problems they've been facing and studying the Bible together. Some of the topics they covered were the Pool of Bethesda and what the church is supposed to be like. The men really enjoyed it and said they are looking forward to the next Saturday night in June. There were 10 men present and they closed in prayer for needs.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 18, 2014

Kevin Humphery and I went to Macon TC for the morning service. One of the men opened up in prayer and then we did video praise and worship. Kevin ministered on "What Time is It" using text from 2 Timothy 3:1-7 and multiple verses in Matthew 24.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 4, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for the Sunday morning service. One of the men opened in prayer and then we went into video praise and worship.

Wayne ministered on "Desperation in Prayer" taking his primary text from Luke 11:1-13. He actually took the men all the way through the book of Luke showing them the prayer life of Christ. He gave us the example of what our prayer life should be. Desperation for God should be at the center of everything in our life ... everything we do.

What was fundamental in the early church as for the most part become supplemental to the present day church. We can do NOTHING without God! We need to be desperate for Him. God in his Sovereignty designed prayer for communication and relationship with us to be a part of everything we do. He designed it in such a way that we have a part but HE gets the glory!

We spent the last 20 minutes or so discussing prayer, the Bible and other questions the men had. We then closed in prayer praying for their needs.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - April 26, 2014

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC to minister with the men. Since we hold two Sunday morning services down there, Wayne decided to turn Saturday night into a Bible Study. The men love to dig into the Word and discuss it. They sat down together opened their Bibles and started discussing questions the men had, problems they've been facing and studying the Bible together. The men really enjoyed it and said they are looking forward to the next Saturday night in May.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - April 20, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to minister to the men. One of the men opened in prayer and we followed with video praise and worship.

Wayne did the same message that he did last night at West Central ITF, but in case you didn't read the other post, I will put it again.
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MACON TRANSITION CENTER - April 6, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC for Sunday morning service. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then we did video Praise and Worship.

Wayne delivered the message on "Who Do You Depend On?" using test from Exodus 33:1-3, 15-18. He opened up with the questions "Will we be dependent upon ourselves or desperate for His Spirit?" In the test, God told Moses that He would give His blessings but would not go with them. How would we respond to this? Unfortunately, most people want the blessings but don't want to do the work to have a relationship.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - March 22, 2014

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC. Wayne decided to finish up the last of "How to Study the Bible." As you study, it is important to write down significant notes concerning who, what, where, when, why and how. What does the Word emphasize, repeat, connect, compare or contrast, and how does the Word communicate? They discussed the different genre of text and how to study them.

Wayne handed out handbooks to the residents and encouraged them to get into a study of the Word together.

If you are interested in attending a class on "How to Study the Bible"and you are in the Woodstock/Canton area, Wayne will begin a class on Monday, April 7th at 7:00 PM at Relevate Church.

MACON TRNSITIONAL CENTER - March 2, 2014

Wayne, Julia and I went down to Macon TC for the Sunday morning service. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then we did praise and worship. I turned it over to Wayne who continued with his series on "How to Study the Bible." He talked about "bringing it back home" .... how does it relate to today. Then he talked about applying it. Interpretation focusses on meaning and application focuses on action. Read More...

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 22, 2014

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC where Wayne continued his study on How to Study the Bible. So much is covered that it is very difficult to report on it but this lesson was on understanding their "home." You can look in Scripture and find passages that will justify anything you want it to justify so how do you know that you understand what the Word means? Two points to understand: The Bible communicates eternal content The content travels across time. But the meaning never changes - it always remains the same ORIGINAL intent - that’s key. If we ignore the context of the Bible, we can twist the Bible to mean all kinds of different things. If you want to know more, you'll have to contact Wayne on his series on "How to Study the Bible." The men have really been getting into it and there has been a lot of discussion.

PRAISE GOD - TWO TEAMS OUT TONIGHT!

For the first time since God gave us Set Captives Free Ministries, we had two teams out tonight at two different facilities. Thank you, Lord!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 17, 2014

We opened up in prayer and then had video praise and worship. I turned the service over to Wayne who continued the series on "How to Study the Bible." Begin the steps....
1. What do I see?

A. Learn to listen: take the time to listen; listen thoughtfully; listen thoroughly; listen repeatedly; listen patiently; listen imaginatively; listen meditatively; listen purposely

B. Learn to look:
1. Is the verb past, present or future?
2. Is the verb imperative?
3. Is the verb active or passive?
4. Look at "space" (what is the whole of what is being talked about.
5. Look for a purpose statement.
6. Look for an order.
7. Look for exaggeration.
8. Look for Chiasm
9. Look for what the Word repeats.
10. Look for connectors (therefore, and, so, etc.)
11. Look for questions and answers.
12. Look for cause and effect.
13. Look for conditions (if, then)
14. Look for lists.

We ended up by getting in a circle and praying together.

If you are wondering what all of this means on studying the Bible and live in the Canton/Woodstock area, Wayne will be doing a 5 week class at Relevate Church starting April 7th on how to study the Bible.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 2, 2014

The team was Wayne and Julia Smith, Tyler Bentley and myself and we had seven men in the service today. We started out the service by one of the residents opening up in prayer. Then we did some video worship which the guys really enjoyed.

After praise and worship, I turned the service over to Wayne and he began his series on "How to Study the Bible" and this was part 1. Text: Psalms 19:7-11

If you are studying the Bible just to memorize scriptures, then you are doing it for the wrong purpose. Our purpose is to learn the Word of God so we can spread the Gospel.

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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - January 25, 2014

Wayne and Julia Smith and Tyler Bentley went to Macon TC for the fourth Saturday service. There were 7 men present for the service. While they were waiting for everyone to come in and get started, there was discussion about Bible history. Wayne also talked about starting "How to Study the Bible" next week at our first Sunday of the month morning service.

They opened with the praise our God deserves by reading Psalm chapter148-150.
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CHANGES IN MINISTRY SCHEDULE

Starting in February, we have 3 services at Macon TC:
First Sunday and Third Sunday at 9:30 AM and fourth Saturday at 7 PM.

We will no longer be going to West Central ITF on the first two Mondays; HOWEVER, we will be going there EVERY Saturday evening for a 6:30 PM service.

I need team members to step up to help with these services. I would like to do a rotation schedule so everyone gets a chance and nobody gets burned out! God is opening more services for us and I am excited!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - January 19, 2014

Today was our first Sunday service at Macon TC. Kevin Humphery went down with Wayne and Julia. We have not done any "advertising" that we'd be there, but there were seven men in the service. Kevin ministered on "I Will Get Up" using the Scripture John 11:1-6, 20-16 which is the story of Lazarus. He used this story bringing it down to where the men live to get them ready for when they go home. He told them that they shouldn't expect it to be easy because it will actually be difficult. They were in darkness so long and then stepped into the light. They are about to go back into darkness. Jesus is standing outside the cave calling. When they get out, they have got to go toward that voice, heeding the voice. Find a good Bible based church to attend.

The last 35+ minutes was spent in a question and answer type session with Wayne and Kevin both answering questions.

We are looking forward to some great Sunday service discipling the men. Thank you, Lord!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Dec. 28, 2013

We had a great time at Macon TC. There were 10 men in the service and 9 of them were new. A lot of our regulars have gone home and we are so happy for them. We opened up in prayer by one of the residents and then sang a couple of songs ("Breathe" and "Amazing Grace"). Wayne did a teaching on "We Can't Continue This Way." Some of the scriptures used were John 14:12; I John 5:3-5; Luke 9:57-62; Luke 14:26-27,33; Titus 2:11; I Cor. 10:1-7; and Ezekial 16:49 talking about Sodom and Gomorrah. He used an awesome illustration with a long rope with about 9 " at the end painted in red with the rest of the rope coming down and laying across the floor. What we do during the red time decides what we will be doing during the rest of the time; yet, we are so caught up in the red time (money, pleasure, family, habits, etc. etc.) that we never even think about the rest of the "rope" which is our eternity. Two men raised their hands to make a decision. We call came in a circle for prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

Julia and I drove down to Macon TC to see their Christmas program for family and friends. One of the residents who comes to our service invited us. Unfortunately the time got changed and he didn't have any way of notifying us. Instead of 7 PM, it started at 5:30 PM. We got there just as it was over. We were disappointed but it wasn't a total waste. Tony was so pleased that we came. He is getting out on Dec. 27th after 15 years of being incarcerated. He introduced us to another resident and encouraged him to come to our services. James and a couple of other guys may be our new "praise team." We also finally got to meet the new Superintendent. It was well worth the drive down there.

REPORT FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS 2013

Thank you to everyone who gave this year for the inmates Christmas bags. We were able to send in over 1700 lip balm and Bic pens plus 120 lbs. of hard assorted candies to put in the Christmas bags for the men at Hays State Prison. Also, some dear friends, Yanni and Becky Yarufalie donated 2,000 paper lunch bags to put the "Christmas goodies" in to be handed out. We will be going up to Hays on Friday, Dec. 13th to hand out the bags to the inmates.

We were also able to give over 1,300 snack bags of assorted chips to Central State Prison and Macon Transitional Center.

I am thrilled to be able to do this as small as our ministry is. YOU made it possible. I don't want to name everyone who gave because I know I would forget someone, but THANK YOU and God bless you! If anyone else still wants to give, you can still go to our secure PayPal link and give by PayPal or credit card on our donate page. It was quite expensive to do all of this. We were able to do quite a bit with the monies already given and the contribution of actual goods, but we still charged about $750 on our credit card that has to be paid off. Any donations would be greatly appreciated! God bless you richly!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Nov. 23, 2013

Wayne, Julia and I went down to Macon TC for our monthly service. There were seven men in attendance (4 were new). Some of our regulars have gone home. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then Tony, another resident, led us in two songs "Fresh Anointing" and "Open the Floodgates of Heaven (Let It Rain)". Wayne started out by covering the different laws in the Bible. Everything God set into motion has always been about a relationship. There was a lot of discussion about what we should be as God's disciples and what the Church should be as we reasoned the Word together. We went right up until closing time, so we got into a circle and Wayne closed in prayer.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Oct. 26, 2013

Wayne and Julia went to Macon Transitional Center to minister to the residents there. I was unable to go. While the men were coming in, a couple of them were discussing various topics of the Bible with Wayne. One asked about the prophecy teaching so Wayne opened with why prophecy is important to us.

Wayne explained that, with modern teaching of prophecy, the book of Revelation would be useless to all churches prior to a so called seven year tribulation and useless to the church once the seven year tribulation started. Therefore, the modern teaching of prophecy makes the book of Revelation, which God made sure to preserve for us, absolutely useless. Wayne then explained the relationship between the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation and how the prophecies were applicable for the past church, present church, and future church (if there is one). 
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DONATIONS NEEDED FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS 2013

We have an urgent need for items to go into Christmas bags for the inmates at Hays State Prison in Trion, Georgia. This year we are donating Bic stick pens (non-retractable), unflavored “chapstick” and individually wrapped hard candies. There are 1,700 inmates and we have to supply enough for everyone. You can either donate by sending money through our secure PayPal link using your PayPal account or a credit card on our “Contact Us / Donate” page. Or you can send the items to our ministry address also located on that page. Any donations are greatly appreciated. Our deadline is Saturday, November 30, 2013.

We are also donating snack size bags of chips to be put in the Christmas bags for the inmates at Central State Prison and Macon Transitional Center in Macon, Georgia. There are 1,300 inmates and we have to supply enough for everyone. Our deadline for this donation is Saturday, December 7, 2013.

Let us show these inmates the love of Jesus! Remember what our Savior said when He was on earth .... when you do it to the least of one of these, you have done it to Him.

Thank you and God bless you!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Sept. 28, 2013

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC. I stayed home to work on preparations for the Day of Breakthrough and to study. Wayne said that only 3 men came to the service. We are at that time of year where we have to compete with football and there was a big Georgia game going on. It's sad that something so temporal and will not help them in any way with their life outside of prison has to come before the life-changing Word of God. In spite of the game, Wayne said they had a great discussion on questions the men had about the Bible and spiritual matters.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Aug. 24 2013

We opened up in prayer and with some praise and worship. None of my musicians were there so I played the keyboard. We had 8 men in the service. Wayne ministered on "Witnessing Made Simple - by Holy Scripture." He started out by telling his own story. Then he read Mark 5:1-21 about the demoniac of Gadarene who was possessed by a legion of demons. Because Jesus set this man free, he wanted to follow Him. But Jesus told him no and told him to go witness.

So often we don't feel qualified. This man did not learn Scriptures nor did he go through a program on how to witness. Jesus just told him to go tell his story. We ALL have a story. Witnessing is as simple as telling your story and what the Lord has done for you. Nobody can take that experience away from you and it is one that can reach others.

Discussion followed and then we circled for prayer. It was a great service.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - July 27 2013

Due to an attack of vertigo, I was not able to go to Macon TC; however, my amazing team Wayne and Julia Smith went to minister. There were 8 men in the service. Several of our "regulars" have gone home, but we had 3 new residents in the service.

Wayne ministered on "Abiding in the Vine; What does it mean?" Using John 15:1-8 as the foundation to the message, Wayne joined the parables of "Swept Clean and Empty" (Matt 12:40-45), "The Sower" (Matt 13:22-23), and "Lazarus and the Rich Man" (Luke 16:19-31) to show what "abiding" means.
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MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - June 22 2013

Julia and I went to Macon TC to minister. We had 10 men in the service (3 new ones). Several were at work and couldn't make it. Tony and Harry led praise and worship and each of them sang a solo. I ministered from Micah 7:7-8 "When I Fall, I Shall Arise." One man came up for salvation/rededication and all came up to make a deeper commitment. Tony and Harry closed with another special song and then we got into a circle and prayed. It was an awesome service. You could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit. They minister to us as much as we minister to them.

Wayne was not able to go tonight because he is "out on the road" and could not get home in time. The men missed him and asked about him. This is the first time he has missed since he and Julia started going to Macon TC with me last July.

We took 25 "Our Daily Bread" to the men since they requested them last month and they went "like hotcakes." We thought that would be plenty but we'll have to mail the rest of them.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - May 25 2013

Wayne and Julia Smith went to Macon without me so I could be at my granddaughter's graduation. Wayne opened the service in prayer and a resident lead worship with a couple songs. There were 8 men in attendance.

The title of the message was Biblical Salvation vs. Salvation of Religion. Wayne explained that, in America, the professing Christian reads the Bible for an average of about 63 minutes a week. Yet, the average American see’s about 56 minutes per day of commercials and has hours in front of a screen per day. Therefore, the church is showing a love for the world more than a love for God. It’s because of a false teaching of salvation and a Christian walk.

Wayne asked, “If I were a sinner and asked, ‘How can I be saved?’ what would you say?” From that point there was a lot of discussion about salvation, grace, faith, and righteousness. One of the residents asked "when does a sin become a sin?" and that opened even more discussion.

They closed the service with prayer and special requests.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Apr. 27 2013

Wayne and Julia went to Macon TC to hold our monthly service. I was not able to go. We had six men attend the service. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then Tony (one of the residents) played the keyboard and led the men in worship with "Amazing Grace" and one other song. Instead of continuing the study this month, Wayne led them in a question and answer session covering the last several months and any questions they had or topics they wanted to discuss. They closed with prayer requests and praying for the special needs of the men who were there. One of our regulars (Robert Fuller) was transferred to a medical facility. Please remember him in your prayers.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Mar. 23, 2013

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to hold our monthly service. We had ten men attend the service. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then we sang a few choruses. This was followed by two of the men doing a special for us while one of them played the keyboard. It was amazing!!!! I have asked them if they will do the praise and worship every month and they agreed.

Wayne ministered on “Symptoms of Laodicea.” The men were very engaged and asked questions. We read 2 Timothy 3:1-5,7 and compared it to the church today. We then read Mark 16:17-18 and Wayne pointed out that if these signs are not in our life, we definitely need to draw closer.

Then after reading Matt. 7:21-23, Wayne pointed out that 70% of Americans today call Him Lord. The people in this Scripture were having an Acts experience and STILL didn’t make it. How do we think we will?

Rev. 3: 15-17; 2 Cor. 13:5; 2 Cor. 10:12; Jeremiah 17:9
What do we do to measure ourselves? If all we have to do is “believe,” then why do we need to examine ourselves? The problem is we often examine ourselves compared to others instead of the Word.

God’s assessment of us: Romans 3:23; Romans 3:10; Isaiah 64:6; Isaiah 1:5-6

Most Christians watch 80 minutes of commercials a day and read less than 50 minutes of the Bible per week.

Ezekiel 36:24-26, 31; James 1:23-24
Is there anyone in society you feel you are better than? If there is, then you do NOT have a new heart. We need to look at ourself by looking at Christ.

We closed the service in prayer. One man came up for salvation and the others wanted a deeper walk with the Lord. We left there very excited. That was the first salvation we had seen at MTC and we were praising God for this new addition to The Kingdom!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Feb. 23, 2013

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to hold our monthly service. We had eight men attend the service. One of the residents opened up in prayer and then we sang a few choruses. I also asked one of the men to sing a special.

Wayne continued his prophesy series with “The Mark of the Beast” and the Sabbath since there were so many questions asked last month and such a deep interest. The men were very engaged and asked questions.

We closed the service in prayer and all eight men repeated a prayer for a deeper walk with the Lord.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Jan. 26, 2013

Wayne, Julia and I went to Macon TC to hold our monthly service. We had six men attend the service (one for the first time). One of the residents opened up in prayer and then we sang a few choruses. I also asked one of the men to sing a special and it was an amazing song that I had never heard before. It had such deep meaning. I wish I knew the title.

Wayne continued his prophesy series with “The Mark of the Beast.” The men were very engaged and asked questions. The new man who attended said he was going to bring more men with him next month. Wayne promised to delve deeper into the mark next month.

We closed the service in prayer and all six men repeated a prayer for a deeper walk with the Lord.

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - Dec. 22, 2012

Wayne and Julia went with me down to Macon TC. We sang a few Christmas carols while I played keyboard and then Wayne continue his teaching on "Prophesy, What Does It Mean For You." This month it was on “Grieving the Spirit.” All eight men came up and we got in a circle. They all wanted to have a recommitment or closer walk with the Lord, so we prayed together. Several of the men said how much they needed this message tonight and how they felt so much better after praying. We closed with one of the men singing a special “Lean on Me.” It was an awesome evening. Thank you Lord!

MACON TRANSITIONAL CENTER - July 28, 2012

Wayne and Julia Smith, and Emily Williams went with me to Macon TC to minister. Emily ministered in music. Wayne has started a series on "Prophecy - What It Means for You." We only had 5 men in the service, but they really got into it and said they plan to bring others with them next month. We ended the service in a circle with all of us taking turns praying for the needs of others.

MACON TRANSITIONAL – June 23, 2012

Emily, Ken and Melony went to Macon TC tonight. There were ten men in attendance. Emily ministered in song. Ken and Melony tag-teamed and ministered on “I Don't Want Another Law to Keep; I Want a Life That Can Keep Me.” They prayed corporately with the men for special needs and encouragement and jobs for two of the men so they can get released.

MACON TRANSITION - Jan. 28, 2012

Emily and Ken joined me to minister at Macon TC. Emily led the praise and worship and Ken brought the message. We had an amazing service. Everyone in the room had already accepted Christ as their Savior, so I closed the service by having the men get into a circle and we prayed for needs. It was worth the 2-hour drive down there. God is so amazing!

MACON TRANSITIONAL - Nov. 26, 2011

Susan, Emily and I went to Macon to hold the last service of 2011. Emily did an amazing job leading praise and worship. When she sang “My God is Real” several of the men stood to their feet. You could tell they were definitely moved by it. I sang “No Sin” and then gave the message on “The Father’s Embrace.” I had Emily close with another song. We had one man who did not want to come in and we “talked him into it.” He came up to me afterwards and told me that message was for him. Praise God! If it was just for that one, it made the evening worth it! We had an awesome time in the Lord.

MACON TRANSITIONAL - Oct. 22, 2011

Emily, Ken and Melony held the service at Macon TC this month. Emily and Melony led praise and worship followed by a teaching "tag teamed" by Ken and Melony. I received an excellent report of the response and how the men interacted with the teaching on "Grace" and got very involved. It was a great evening of learning in the Lord!