Felon Church

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ส.ค. 2024
  • Freedom City Church is an Assembly of God church in Springfield, Missouri and it's very different from any church I've visited so far. Their pastor is a former prisoner and heroin addict and the church is built around the Gospel and connecting with people in similar situations.

ความคิดเห็น • 273

  • @davidleemanning1496
    @davidleemanning1496 3 ปีที่แล้ว +246

    I’m actually a product of this church’s Prison Ministry and a spiritual son of Pastor John’s. I was a heroin addict for ten years but heard the gospel message for the first time at one of his chapel services in county jail. I went from the prison campus, to the Hope Home’s of the Ozarks, to the sober living program, enrolled in the churches college, went to the church intern housing and I am now married with complete restoration with my oldest son and now have 4 boys and I will graduate in the spring with my BA. Oh and this Thanksgiving I will have 5 years clean from all drugs!! Hallelujah!!
    David Lee Manning
    -Recovery Chaplain/Freedom City Church

    • @ShockinglyToTheMax
      @ShockinglyToTheMax 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Bless you, man. A brother from Down Under. Pete

    • @logiboy123
      @logiboy123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Good on you mate.

    • @nycrypto_investor
      @nycrypto_investor 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Congratulations on all your accomplishments. Glory to God 🙌🏼

    • @Platter_heads
      @Platter_heads 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      SUM is an awesome school!

    • @tabethacordell3352
      @tabethacordell3352 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Praise God! Thank you for sharing your testimony. God is good!

  • @3DPrintingNerd
    @3DPrintingNerd 3 ปีที่แล้ว +76

    This was wonderful, and John is one heck of a good dude.

  • @curtisyuen6058
    @curtisyuen6058 3 ปีที่แล้ว +139

    I'm an ex junkie 98 days clean today and I'm a Christian. I came to Jesus in 2013 northfraser pretrial centre in Port Coquitlam BC Canada while in segregation during my one hour out I saw behind the bubble where the CO's sit I saw a droor open from the desk and a bib Bible with the words Holy Bible inscribed in the cover. I asked the CO to bring it up to the 3rd tier where I was housed and lo and behold it was a Kenneth Copeland NKJV Bible. That dudes ministries had Bible's even out here lol. Anyways I read it cover to cover pronouncing every last word. It was the first book I fully read. At the end there was a prayer you could pray for salvation. Anyways, it's been a long haul but he kept me alive more than 30 fentanyl related overdoeses and God never quit on me. I am 98 days clean as of right now going strong thanks to Jesus Christ.
    Oh and Luke 15 is the name of the Christian recovery house around here

    • @mostreal907
      @mostreal907 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Amen!

    • @debbeb4499
      @debbeb4499 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Falling into the drug pit is easy, clawing your way out is tough. You deserve respect for your courage, persistence and willpower. Keep up the good work, Curtis! God is on your team.

    • @jdmitz
      @jdmitz 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Praying for you my friend

    • @dimesonhiseyes9134
      @dimesonhiseyes9134 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Welcome home brother! The father has prepared a place for you!
      Keep up the fight. Don't ever stop fighting and working on your sobriety.
      98 days is a big deal. I'm proud of you.

    • @darganism4338
      @darganism4338 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Congrats in your ongoing recovery Curtis! Huge encouragement to hear your story. I’m praying with you that we “look to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising shame” (Hebrews 12:2).
      Thank you for sharing, brother.

  • @stephencoul
    @stephencoul 3 ปีที่แล้ว +145

    A church with action is a beautiful thing. I'll take the movement of the Holy Spirit over a well decorated church any day.

    • @RocknRoRose
      @RocknRoRose 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      even our well decorated churches are almost always gifts from people who are involved in the movement of the Holy Spirit. Having an encounter with Jesus whether you are in prison or even suffering a sickness. Is amazing. Divine Mercy! Jesus, I trust in you.

    • @stephencoul
      @stephencoul 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@RocknRoRose Great Point! Cheers!

    • @RocknRoRose
      @RocknRoRose 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@B R well thank goodness I don't know any "JUST" social clubs nor do I know any scandalous priests. Again, my money I make goes directly to where I evangelize. We the laity are able to have a lot of responsibility in the church, sorry responsibilities have not been solely with priests or deacons in the past 100 years, it's been pretty mixed with adult laity members and religious people such as nuns or monks , we give a lot to people who just want coats, clothes and toys from our churches, sometimes even food or drink. We have given drink to the thirsty to a homeless man who walked in during a funeral luckily I was in the back and he came searching for a bathroom but I had a bottle of seltzer for him. Priests even pay for the food to give to the soup kitchens. With salaries that seem to be much lower than any politician or public figure, salaries for clergy may go toward heating and electric, mortgage, and obviously the books or educational dvds we share to families. Sorry. I'm not into children, I like my people old :-) and happy to be with someone who is much older than I. well not much older but still older :-)

    • @oogalook
      @oogalook 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I go to a big decorated church, and I agree with you too. But the windows are really nice! :p

  • @jcthefluteman
    @jcthefluteman 3 ปีที่แล้ว +139

    I'm really impressed that they have a secular training program alongside the ministerial one,; they're not just looking out for their fellow Christians but their fellow human beings, period. That's what a real Christian should do

    • @RocknRoRose
      @RocknRoRose 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Catholic Charities does a lot of secular work too. for people who are non-religious and not into heavy worship who may not even understand the Faith. If people need help Catholic Charities and other organizations help. Really depends on the area of the place it is. Some states like NY and NJ are different than say MA and NH and CT etc.

    • @bonniesmith3061
      @bonniesmith3061 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Amen

    • @RocknRoRose
      @RocknRoRose 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @B R sorry BR I posted the same comment with replying to both this comment and the other comment you sent and I replied to this comment as well underneath the "Depends on the Church..." comment you sent.

    • @RocknRoRose
      @RocknRoRose 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @B R and also by the way, maybe you should be watching Bishop Robert Barron if you have such stereotypes of clergy because a few bad apples did what you said. We are not denying it.

    • @dimesonhiseyes9134
      @dimesonhiseyes9134 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@RocknRoRose BR just posts anti catholic stuff. Pay him no mind.

  • @andrewbieber8832
    @andrewbieber8832 3 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    This church has literally helped change my life! Its vision is all about raising sons and daughters of the vision to continue the mission! To seek and save the lost! Theres an Army rising up!! Off of college campuses and out of the prisons!
    There's countless stories like mine of this church taking a chance on the hopeless and we are seeing powerful transformations!!

  • @FreedomCityChurch
    @FreedomCityChurch 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thanks for coming to visit us Matt! Many Blessings!

  • @adamguinn2087
    @adamguinn2087 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My name is Adam Guinn my wife lead me to this church after getting out of prison and Jesus meeting me in my cell at Fulton Mo. I have struggled with using methamphetamine intravenously for over 16 years DAILY and snorting heroin for almost 2 years. It's just what I did every day not sometimes it was daily. I thought that was going to be my life ever since I was 16 years old. I was trapped by the devil and his lies. I went and heard this man preach and fell in love with his vision and love for other people especially us that thought we were to far gone! To be able to see a man just like me trapped just like me using needles just like me be set free and love life and giving back inspired me. He loves me like a brother not above me just equal and that has touched my heart and has helped me push through some of the worst times in the last year of my life. He has helped me and my wife with our marriage, leading us, getting involved with Freedom City Church, giving back to the community and teaching us how to become completely free from addiction! I never knew it was possible!! I've heard stories about just a couple of people in my time being free from what we were in! I URGE y'all to come to our church so we can show you many many many more brothers and sisters truly living free!!! Thank u Pastor John for being an awesome Pastor, lover of God's word, such a follow of Jesus Christ, AND MOST OF ALL A BROTHER!! LOVE U MAN

    • @tabethacordell3352
      @tabethacordell3352 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      What an encouraging testimony. Praise God! Thank you for sharing!

  • @enischial965
    @enischial965 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Anglican here. Praise God for the work he is doing through Pastor John. This is frontline combat in terms of spiritual warfare. This is truly a Church with Christ at its center. I pray for all those who seek redemption and freedom through Jesus. Stay strong my brother in Christ!

  • @rosefamilymissions12
    @rosefamilymissions12 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    My wife and I were Sr. Pastors in Texas. It was time for us to leave our church and we started to look for the next place God would have us go. We happen to find Freedom City Church and fell in love with what God was doing in Springfield. So after conversations with Pastor John and staff we packed up and moved here to join the team! God is doing amazing things at Freedom City!

  • @curtdare8129
    @curtdare8129 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    As an ex-felon I appreciate all you are doing.

  • @sarawhitehead7376
    @sarawhitehead7376 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I started going to this church, but the Branson Campus, early in my recovery, and the feeling I felt there changed my life forever. It was then that I began my walk with the Lord. Some time after, I moved cities and started attending the Springfield campus; til this day, the feeling of The Lord’s spirit in that place is overwhelmingly beautiful. FCC changed my life.

  • @afriendindeed3660
    @afriendindeed3660 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    My father was a functioning cocaine addict. His brother was too and an alcoholic. My dad passed of a heart attack when i was 14 and his brother when i was 18. We are all prisoners of sin. I am glad you shared this and let this man's story be told. My heart goes out to these men and women. God can change your heart, because with Him, anything is possible. Jesus Christ is worthy!

    • @langwaydpful
      @langwaydpful 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Faith is the substance of things unseen, and the hope of God's working through this church.

  • @JaredBrandon1
    @JaredBrandon1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    As a churchworker, Pastor John's statement about having a hard time "stewarding the harvest" that God was sending them was humbling. This is an uncommon "problem" for churches to find solutions for. Seven or more salvations every week?! God is doing amazing things through this church.

  • @micahmatthew7104
    @micahmatthew7104 3 ปีที่แล้ว +29

    “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners;”
    ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61:1‬ ‭NRSV-CI‬‬
    A truly biblical church

  • @paulroe3771
    @paulroe3771 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Freedom City Church has made an impact in my life . From day one of walking in the door . They gave me acceptance , love and compassion for the situation that I was in. FCC and Hope Homes allowed me the opportunity to learn about God and have a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. My life is forever changed because of what Pastor John Alarid is doing at Freedom City Church.

  • @IamJanaKim18
    @IamJanaKim18 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Freedom City Church has changed my life and I’m still in awe at the things God does for everyone here!!

  • @Athanasius242
    @Athanasius242 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    TH-cam needs a love button like Facebook. I love this video, I love that church. It gives me Early Church (Acts) vibes. I just love it, Thank God for that assembly of believers.

  • @codypickens5832
    @codypickens5832 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I attended the FCC Prison campus @ OCC I then was released to another program that just happened to be located 1 block from FCC I had no idea this was the case I went to my first Friday Night Fire service and haven’t left since I could just feel there was something different here at FCC They welcomed me into their family with open arms and loving hearts. I continued to serve faithfully or as we like to say at FCC “stay in the process” while attending the18 month Victory Mission program. Upon my completion the VM program and because of me faithful obedience to Christ, I was offered an opportunity for Kingdom work with Victory Mission. At the same time I spoke with Pastor John about how I have a calling to ministry. I am now enrolled in Global University Berean School of the Bible. And I serve as an Intern with FCC. Thank you Pastor John for believing in me! And thank you FCC for bringing me into the FAM Love each and every one of you God Bless and Goodnight!

  • @GhostOfJulesVerne
    @GhostOfJulesVerne 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I have always been agnostic but... Even though the resurrection doesn't seem scientifically possible, It's getting harder and harder to deny the amazing effect that Jesus has had on so many millions of people.

    • @juice2307
      @juice2307 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I mean, if there were a God, would he not prove himself by doing that which is scientifically impossible? Also, would it not be the case that a non-contingent being that is being itself (the source of all state of being and sustenance of it) would be the author of all things contingent, and thus all things that are contingent would have to bend to him?
      Also, if I made a game with specific rules and laws of function, is it not true that nothing is stopping me, as an “unmoved mover”, from changing that very program to allow for specific exceptions based on my will?

  • @ThoinFrostaxe
    @ThoinFrostaxe 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This is truly beautiful. I grew up in a traditional New England Baptist church. But man, the best service I ever attended was when I stopped at a diner in AZ one Sunday morning, on my motorcycle, and a group of bikers invited me to join them. That was their Sunday service, and I felt Christ more at that table than I ever did in my hometown pew. This church gives me similar vibes - it's authentic, they people are genuine, and it's about Christ. I really hope this video goes viral, and more people see that there is more to Christianity than the Televangelists.

  • @richsmith6997
    @richsmith6997 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    Wow! That was powerful! I am a Lutheran and my theology and worship style differs greatly from what one would find at an Assembly of God church. Nonetheless, I cannot help but praise God for the wonderful work and the changed lives that is taking place at this church. I found this video very moving. Although it's not often that I find myself shedding a tear while watching a TH-cam video, I could not help but do so as I watched this powerful example of God's grace and redemption.

  • @Betty_Virago
    @Betty_Virago 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    It was my dad's funeral last week, he was almost 91. Aged 10 he went into the workhouse because his alcoholic father had made the family homeless and they were living under a dining room table in a farmers field. Then he stole food and was sent to an approved school, then borstal and later prison.
    He was in solitary confinement for punching a prison guard when a salvation army minister walked into his cell by mistake (expecting the previous 'tenant') my dad told his to F off but the minister came back.
    At some point he became a Christian in the prison and a member of the Salvation Army.
    On his release he was met by the minister who took him to the local Army hostel, he was given a job and taught to read and write. Then a few years later he went to the bible college. He spent the rest of his life living and working amongst the homeless with mum and us kids.
    The power of God can change lives beyond that what we can believe. When he died over a thousand people made contact with his church and we're regularly hearing stories of people he helped in secret.

  • @jamietatum7517
    @jamietatum7517 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I was called to Freedom City in December of 2017 and a week later I was saved there. The same day I made a decision to enter into the Hope Home Program, Pastor John has mentioned. Throughout the program I developed an intimate prayer life and learned how to depend on and rely on God. I also was able to be a part of a community that loved and supported me, as well as given opportunities to serve that same community. The best part is my son and I were able to restore our relationship, and actually today is the year anniversary that I brought to him to the kids ministry and he accepted Jesus into his heart. God used his ex addict mother, to sober up and bring her son to church and he accepts Jesus into his life at 8 years old. That’s our God! I am still sober today, the 18th of this month will be 3 years. I am so thankful for Freedom City, Pastor John and all the others that pour out onto those around them in this way.

  • @warriorlink8612
    @warriorlink8612 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I'm not impressed by those who stand with the greats, I'm impressed by those who sit with the broken. The Lord Jesus will humble the proud and will lift up the humble.
    Thanks for the video!!

  • @ninjason57
    @ninjason57 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is an awesome way to bring the community healing through the redemption that God offers in Christ. As an ER doctor I have seen far too many post-prison people fall back into their old ways doing drugs. Sure I can resuscitate their bodies from the brink of death due to overdose but a ten min conversation with them about repentance towards God for their souls isn't enough. Would be great to have a community like that in my area to give those people a structured prolonged place for recovery.

  • @someguysopinion3692
    @someguysopinion3692 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    As an ex-con who is going to seminary, this gives me hope that I might be able to preach someday. Great video as always. Keep doing what you do and God bless you brother

  • @JohnnyUmphress
    @JohnnyUmphress 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    He is right about the difference between someone who has been all the way to the bottom in life and someone who has never had to suffer adversity. When you've been on the bottom you have a greater appreciation for freedom and salvation.

    • @FreedomCityChurch
      @FreedomCityChurch 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Amen! Those that have been forgiven much, love much.

  • @adaazodeh1269
    @adaazodeh1269 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This beautiful! Could be my best episode yet 😊 I’m Catholic but not a church snob😊 It must be an experience to worship with a crowd of people who’ve actually been set free from prison, drugs and prostitution. May The Holy Spirit remain with you. Amen

  • @JackGladstoneHolroyde
    @JackGladstoneHolroyde 3 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    I'm agnostic (or rather fluctuate between deep belief and atheism, but always with action) and a recovering addict and I gotta say this is *remarkable*.
    God bless those guys - even if God doesn't exist they offer the most important gifts to my people - hope, fellowship and understanding.

    • @gregclift626
      @gregclift626 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      God exists.

    • @IndianaJoe0321
      @IndianaJoe0321 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      For years I was an unchurched agnostic -- searching for Truth. I hated Christians, gave atheists a hard time, and pushed back against my professors at the state university. Thankfully, I realized God is real (when I was almost 27), and placed my trust & faith in Jesus for salvation. I'll continue to pray for you -- just like folks did for me.

    • @circuitrider8700
      @circuitrider8700 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I used to volunteer with Teen Challenge, which was based on a similar model. Sadly, many of the centers no longer preach Christianity because they receive Federal assistance. We used to say that God draws people the world considers hopeless, helpless, and useless, to bring glory to Him. Find a Bible, paper or online, and I suggest you start reading at John chapter 1. Praying that the Holy Spirit opens your eyes and draws you to Christ.

    • @queenria7
      @queenria7 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I recently heard someone suggest to think "the Good" instead of "God". There can be no doubt The Good exists and is real.

  • @jbirdness
    @jbirdness 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    This is amazing. Love to see a church doing work with people that society is too quick to forget.

  • @GospelSimplicity
    @GospelSimplicity 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    This is so beautiful to see. Thanks for sharing this Matt!

  • @zacharyrogers51
    @zacharyrogers51 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I first became involved with freedom city church at our Ozark correctional center campus, Upon my release from OCC I went into the hope homes of the Ozarks and it transformed my life. At Freedom City Church my spirit has been revived, my life has and is being rebuilt, and my dreams are being restored. As a child I always wanted to go to college I am now in my third year at SUM Bible college in Theological Seminary, pursuing my bachelors in biblical studies. Furthermore, I currently serve at Freedom City Church in the children’s ministry as well as working hand-in-hand with recovering adicts. I recently celebrated five years clean.Which is something I never thought would ever happen. It truly is a miracle. Jesus is still in the business of miracles, God is still on the throne, and the Holy Spirit is moving in mighty ways at Freedom City Church!

  • @megangray7769
    @megangray7769 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    This is a beautiful church with very obvious fruit, Praise the Most High God ❤️✝️🙏🏰🌈 All Glory to Christ Jesus

  • @micahfisher6125
    @micahfisher6125 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Pastor John came and spoke at my school (Evangel University in Springfield), and I loved his heart and the work him and his team are doing. I have a few close friends who are a part of his team, and I am blown away by their dedication and the stories that they tell.

  • @LouiseSampsonite
    @LouiseSampsonite 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I feel like weeping! Praise be to God, that He came for sinners, to buy them back and make them His own!

  • @jskuzma
    @jskuzma 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Matt I cannot tell you how much I love this series. It's so amazing to see how the hands and feet of Jesus are out there doing their thing in their context and it's all so beautiful.
    I would love to meet John and pray for him and his church and encourage them to keep harvesting as best they can. Hopefully this video encourages more prayer for the workers out in Missouri!

  • @craigmummert5125
    @craigmummert5125 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Wow, That is the Church. I pray that I can get my home church to be more like that. Thank you Matt for sharing this.

    • @dimesonhiseyes9134
      @dimesonhiseyes9134 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes let us pray our brothers and sisters work have a desire to work for the Lord.

  • @englishlearningcenter1470
    @englishlearningcenter1470 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    A Catholic here! Loved this video. This is definitely one of my favorite TMBH videos. Great job Pastor John Alarid 👏👏👏👏👏 And thank you for producing such great videos Matt👏👏
    Praised be Jesus!!!!

  • @benrandall89
    @benrandall89 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I love this video, and his church! If I may, I want to start an argument with some of the believers on here. 😬
    I look at the contrast between this church, and some of the churches I’ve been involved with (mostly baptist/non-denom) and the difference couldn’t be more obvious. The more traditional, stodgy, “theologically sound” churches I’ve been apart of are constantly pandering to their base. With their words, they say “all are welcome,” but with their actions they say “look like me, talk like me, act like me, dress like me. Once you do those things, I’ll be your friend.”
    This man is preaching the gospel, and the spirit is moving in his church because Pastor John gives the Spirit the FREEDOM to move. And look, I get the skepticism some believers have of “moves of the spirit.” But skepticism that’s based out of a fleshly discomfort is often falsely called “discernment.” In my mind, if it makes my flesh uncomfortable, then it’s probably on the right track. The reason most American Christians criticize charismatic churches is because we have the luxury of not relying on the Spirit of God.
    Just my observations. If you read this whole thing, know that I say this out of a love for my brothers and sisters in Christ.

  • @Chris-yg5vh
    @Chris-yg5vh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'm am ex felon and ex leo both(you figure out which came first lol)....good to see Gods work in action. Was a Germanic Pagan for a decade and like the pastor here I remet Jesus in solitary. Never looked back.

  • @efowble
    @efowble 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Absolutely loving this interview. This church is doing the work of the Lord. Period.

  • @danraw4626
    @danraw4626 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I wanna like this twice lol. Father God bless this ministry and everyone who encounters you there in Jesus name, Amen 🙏🏻🕊🔥📖

  • @foreignparticle1320
    @foreignparticle1320 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Would have been great to hear a dig-deep conversation with him about his testimony, theology, worldview and birth of the ministry. But anyway, love seeing this kind of stuff. Thanks Matt!

  • @cjwhitmore1881
    @cjwhitmore1881 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Absolutely incredible! The pastor and that church are simply doing the Lord's work, and touching thousands of lives in the process!

  • @webproductions28
    @webproductions28 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Wow! That's what every church should be like, in my opinion. Regardless of what denomination or tradition you're from, there is something to be learned with this guy and his church. Thanks Matt!

  • @Colley_co
    @Colley_co 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It’s not often when we see something that is so clearly the Gospel lived out in the world and this is it. So hopeful.

  • @matthewbateman6487
    @matthewbateman6487 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Yeah, I'm Catholic~
    And what God is working through that ministry is miraculous. Praise Christ!
    Thanks for sharing Matt.

  • @MrAmerininja
    @MrAmerininja 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Absolutely awesome ministry. Like you say Matt, even if we disagree with the AoG in the secondaries we really cannot ignore the power of God working in ministries like this. Hallelujah!

  • @crystalrock18
    @crystalrock18 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The one AOG church I would attend. Super awesome testimony from the pastor and the fact he wants to help those who are truly broken.

  • @mysterybiscuits
    @mysterybiscuits 3 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    This whole series of visiting different churches is really interesting, even though I wouldn't consider myself a Christian (I'm still open to the idea of coming back to Christianity at some point).

    • @kimcass4440
      @kimcass4440 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I have been working through a crisis of faith over the past year. Something that has been really helpful for me (maybe you’d enjoy it too) is to read the Apostolic Fathers. They are the writings of church leaders who literally personally knew the Apostles in the Bible, Peter, Paul, Mark, etc. It’s amazing for me to see men being dragged to the coliseum at Rome writing letters to the same churches Paul visited, encouraging them to keep the faith. I have also been studying multiple Christian traditions, from Catholic to Eastern Orthodox to Lutheran and Presbyterian. I used to be frustrated by the division of the church, but now I see our commonality, and I’m encouraged.

    • @charlesblake3945
      @charlesblake3945 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Whenever you are ready, we love you and can't wait for your return! God is still and always with you!

    • @IndianaJoe0321
      @IndianaJoe0321 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I pray, @@kimcass4440, that the division you see in the Body would not affect your personal relationship with Jesus.

    • @kimcass4440
      @kimcass4440 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@IndianaJoe0321 Thank you. I’ve actually been encouraged with my study on different denomination. We are divided because we truly believe different things about various practices in the church. But our basis of faith in Jesus Christ and following him is the same from denomination to denomination.

    • @autumnjulian2671
      @autumnjulian2671 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      God will always be waiting with open arms and so will the people of this amazing church!

  • @kenyasevilla3391
    @kenyasevilla3391 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Freedom city church it truly amazing!! Seeing the passion and love the Freedom City have for people it’s truly amazing!

  • @cole141000
    @cole141000 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Unexpectedly, the most genuine and alive church visit in the playlist yet. What I love about it is that the theology that I agree with so deeply was practically manifested without words. What a wonderful community around the world we have in Christ.

  • @bonniesmith3061
    @bonniesmith3061 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I work with prison ministry through my church and the Emmaus Worldwide organization with multiple prisons in several states. But even without my heart in prison ministry already I would have loved this video! What an amazing church. Praise God.

  • @MyLife-yv1fi
    @MyLife-yv1fi 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Glory to God. This is beautiful.

  • @jpnj9556
    @jpnj9556 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Beautiful. It makes me tear up not only because the heart this man and ministry have for Christ but because I am nothing like them and this hit me where it needed to

  • @MarcelTinawSape14
    @MarcelTinawSape14 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    God Bless Pastor John Alarid, their work is truly incredible!

  • @chrisgarciahostof-isitjust6697
    @chrisgarciahostof-isitjust6697 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This church is doing more than most any church I've ever heard of. Extraordinary.

  • @rtwfreak2012
    @rtwfreak2012 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I love what they are doing, you know what I mean!
    And it is great what Christ can do in us, you know what I mean!
    seriously. What a great mission and what a great pastor

    • @carolynfiore3216
      @carolynfiore3216 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The constant “ya know what I mean”. Lol. Thought I was the only one!

  • @jendragon42
    @jendragon42 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for highlighting a ministry specifically for the recently or currently incarcerated. This is a population so often ignored and so overwhelmingly underserved, yet Jesus included them in the story: I was in prison, and you came to visit me. I cannot currently visit my brothers in prison because of covid, so I very much appreciated seeing their plight here.

  • @peruseperusing5027
    @peruseperusing5027 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    So beautiful!! Thank God for these ministries! :)

  • @clsmithent
    @clsmithent 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Woohoo❣ A church that's on fire to show people there is truly a new life in Christ!

  • @danielmiller2565
    @danielmiller2565 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This resonates with me on so many levels. I spent 24 years in Kansas prison before being released in 2012. I gave my life to the Lord towards the end of my sentence, but when I got out I spent the next 5 years in drugs, the escort business, and sinful sex. God never gave up on me and gave me a wife who never did either. I am now over 3 years clean from the needle, I attend online classes from SAGU, and I teach at a Celebrate Recovery we started here in Vandalia, Missouri almost 3 years ago. What you guys are doing in Springfield (my birth city), blows my mind. I have found it hard to find a congregation that truly accepts me here. I have given my testimony and though I was asked to do it I feel like it was then held against me at different times. I wish I lived closer to Springfield, but I can not wait until I can make it down and attend this church at some point. God Bless you guys and what you are doing!!!!!

  • @aniala
    @aniala 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    What a beautiful ministry. Truly the gospel in action

  • @donovanschafer8620
    @donovanschafer8620 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    It's so inspiring to see churches reflecting the values and actions demonstrated by Christ in the Bible. This is something that (if I wasn't already Christian) I would want be won by and won to.

  • @bigsleeps213MC
    @bigsleeps213MC 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Praise the Lord! God is so good...

  • @K-Wiles
    @K-Wiles 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Praying for this blessed church and their pastor

  • @MelissaD80
    @MelissaD80 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I LOVE this so much!!! The world needs to know about this man and the mission God has put him on! I wanna move to Missouri now... just be a part of this!!! ♥️♥️ May God Bless this man and his church ABUNDANTLY!!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

  • @gobokinje9183
    @gobokinje9183 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This is the most beautiful concept of a church i've ever seen.

  • @robwebster8472
    @robwebster8472 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    True Christianity. TRUTH. THE GREATEST MIRACLE IS THE SALVATION OF A SOUL

  • @ToddStafford
    @ToddStafford 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I've been a fan of John for about a year now. Love what he & his team are doing there. Thanks for checking them out.

  • @johnnixon2870
    @johnnixon2870 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Desperately need a program like this in Texas my son is a recovering addict about to get out of state jail

  • @autumnjulian2671
    @autumnjulian2671 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This church and it's people have impacted my life in so many ways. I'm so thankful and blessed that the Lord led me here. ❤

  • @mathijs7
    @mathijs7 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Wow, great! God bless them, thanks for sharing!

  • @DavidLGraves
    @DavidLGraves 3 ปีที่แล้ว +54

    Matt, I love this series and what you are going for in general. This episode seemed very rushed through. Will you be talking to him again? I'd love to hear more of his story.

    • @MattWhitmanTMBH
      @MattWhitmanTMBH  3 ปีที่แล้ว +44

      I did three videos with the Assemblies of God in one day, so the two church visits turned out to be much more about what was going on at the churches than about the theology driving things. The third video in the series will get into a bit more of that when I sit down with the President of the denomination.

    • @circuitrider8700
      @circuitrider8700 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@MattWhitmanTMBH Looking forward to the third installment, Matt. When you say "President" of the denomination, do you mean Doug Clay (General Superintendent of AGUSA) or George O. Wood (Chairman, World AG Fellowship)?

  • @grandmasterlucien
    @grandmasterlucien 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    So much fruit here that left a very sweet taste in my heart. Praise God.

  • @matthewyoder5298
    @matthewyoder5298 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you, Matt, for doing these church segments. I have enjoyed and been encouraged to see God's kaleidoscope of forms and styles used throughout the church. He is a great God!

  • @AnnaH-qt9nl
    @AnnaH-qt9nl 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I love the difference in this church tour compared to the others. There is ACTIVE ministry happening in the building at whatever time of day. God doesn’t stop, and looks like, neither do these folks. That’s being the hands and feet right there. Bravo.
    Matt- can you go into the AOG platform, please. How are they different and why are they controversial in some circles?

    • @jared0817
      @jared0817 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm an AOG minister, go to the assemblies of God website and look up the 16th fundamentals. You'll find it's pretty Orthodox regards things like the trinity. We're definitely continuationist. It leans Armenian but doesn't fully quite go there. We also affirm women in ministry. Those are probably big three controversial items. My best friend is SBC and disagrees with me on all three of those things and he's still in his friend lol. Hopefully this helps.

  • @bethparrillooooo
    @bethparrillooooo 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What an embodiment of Matthew 25.35-36. Very encouraging!

  • @claraartnow6645
    @claraartnow6645 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I believe that this is the action of God upon these people. This is what has true value: when people change their lives towards God!

  • @davidscript
    @davidscript 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love seeing brothers and sisters actively walking out the gospel, and discipleship. We need far more of this in the body of Christ not less.

  • @trentitybrehm5105
    @trentitybrehm5105 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow that was beautiful to watch.

  • @markbranstetter850
    @markbranstetter850 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Jesus's Kingdom at work. Heart filled.

  • @Hannahdealer8180
    @Hannahdealer8180 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hallelujah!

  • @scottmeinel7782
    @scottmeinel7782 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What more churches need are prison ministries. This is one of the most forgotten missionary fields that we have in the United States.
    God bless this man for doing what so many could do but choose not to.

  • @BreadofLifeChannel
    @BreadofLifeChannel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Awesome! God bless this pastor and church!

  • @BikeRideTherapy
    @BikeRideTherapy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Hallelujah, Glory to God.

  • @BibelFAQ
    @BibelFAQ 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Man, this is awesome! Living by what they are teaching! He walks the walk, to throw out some christianese. :D

  • @johndavidjones7475
    @johndavidjones7475 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    May God bless John and this ministry.

  • @chaseshatswell9648
    @chaseshatswell9648 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    That church is absolutely amazing! Had a pleasure of doing a worship night with Evangel University’s Catalyst team there a few years ago

    • @FreedomCityChurch
      @FreedomCityChurch 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Catalyst was here last Wednesday and will be here this Sunday! Thanks for serving. :)

  • @ae_pd
    @ae_pd 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This was beautiful ❤️🙏🏻

  • @bendulany7255
    @bendulany7255 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love this episode so much!

  • @sisirkattempudi7155
    @sisirkattempudi7155 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Golly, what a beautiful concept! Totally captivated. I wish normal churches could be this way too. It's like seeing the gospels come alive; Jesus calling the lowest of the low to follow him. What a beautiful message forgiveness is. Thank God for that!

  • @Jared-Cruz
    @Jared-Cruz 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is honestly incredible. That church is on fire in the most incredible and positive sense.

  • @JoshRobinsonVids
    @JoshRobinsonVids 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Mind. Blown.

  • @ddblankenship
    @ddblankenship 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So cool to see you in my area!! I went to Bible College with Pastor John. Awesome to see his testimony and faithfulness continue to be recognized and used to bless and encourage others.

  • @lrwilliamsjr
    @lrwilliamsjr 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    THIS is what the Church looks like! Amazing!

  • @georgerichwine1864
    @georgerichwine1864 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow, Thank God for his Holy Spirit.

  • @angierosales1606
    @angierosales1606 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow!! God bless this church!! This is probably my favorite video of this series, I have a heart for prison ministry and I think this was powerful, helping ppl who need to know Jesus in the lowest periods of their lives. Many blessing! 🙌❤️🙏

  • @gunnerbakke5020
    @gunnerbakke5020 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Brother, thank you! This is an encouragement.