Matthew Linehan, a U.S. Army veteran and co-founder of Men in Christ Global Ministries, has announced the release of his debut Christian nonfiction book, 'Free Indeed: The Seven Keys to Unlock Your Freedom.' The book, published by Lucid Books, is a testament to Linehan's journey from nearly three decades of addiction to a life of purpose and ministry, offering readers a scriptural roadmap to personal liberation.
Linehan's struggles began after the suicide of his father, a loss that plunged him into grief and led to years of substance abuse and spiritual darkness. In January 2015, he experienced what he describes as a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ, which he credits with setting him free from addiction. 'After nearly 30 years of addiction, I encountered Jesus Christ and was completely set free,' Linehan said. 'I wrote this book because I want people to know that no matter how long they have struggled, freedom is still possible. There is hope, and there is a way forward.'
The book introduces seven biblical principles that Linehan says helped him overcome the strongholds that controlled his life. It is written not only for individuals battling addiction, shame, fear, and destructive patterns but also for families, ministry leaders, and caregivers who support them. The material was initially developed as a curriculum that Linehan and his wife, Emily, taught at a large church in Houston, Texas. Seeing the impact of biblical teaching and authentic discipleship, Linehan combined the curriculum with his personal testimony to create the book.
'I believe this book is different because I lived it, walked it out, and came through the other side to talk about it,' Linehan said. 'These principles are not theories to me. They are biblical truths that transformed my life and became the foundation of the message God has called me to share.'
Writing the book was not without challenges. Although friends and family had encouraged him for years to share his story, Linehan began seriously working on the project around 2020. The process required persistence and organization, especially as he navigated the difficulties of staying focused while living with ADHD. Despite these obstacles, his purpose remained clear: to offer hope. 'If readers take away only one thing from this book, I want it to be hope,' he said. 'Jesus offers abundant new life to everyone who is willing to surrender. Freedom is not reserved for a select few, and no one is too broken, too ashamed, or too far gone to experience the transforming power of God's grace.'
Linehan's ministry extends beyond his writing. As co-founder of Men in Christ Global Ministries, he is dedicated to helping men grow spiritually and become leaders. He is a 2018 graduate of the Lakewood Church Pastoral Care Internship and previously served as a men's ministry director in Katy, Texas. He currently lives in Taipei, Taiwan, with his wife and daughter, while continuing to minister internationally and travel regularly to Houston. For more information about the book or Lucid Books, visit Lucid Books.
