Matthew Linehan, a U.S. Army veteran and co-founder of Men in Christ Global Ministries, has announced the release of his new book, "Free Indeed: The Seven Keys to Unlock Your Freedom." The book, published by Lucid Books, details Linehan's journey from nearly 30 years of drug and alcohol addiction to a life transformed by faith in Jesus Christ.
Linehan's struggles began in his youth after his father died by suicide. The ensuing grief and pain led to decades of addiction and spiritual darkness. In January 2015, he experienced a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ that he says set him completely free. Since then, he has been committed to helping others find the same healing and hope.
"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."
"Free Indeed" introduces seven biblical principles that Linehan credits with helping him overcome the strongholds in his life. The book is intended for readers dealing with addiction, shame, fear, destructive patterns, or other forms of spiritual or emotional bondage, as well as for families, ministry leaders, and caregivers supporting them.
The material was first developed while Linehan and his wife, Emily, taught a curriculum at a large church in Houston, Texas. Seeing the impact on people's lives, Linehan combined the curriculum with his personal testimony of redemption.
"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."
Although friends and family had encouraged him for years to write his story, Linehan began seriously working on the project around 2020. The process required persistence and organization, especially as he navigated the challenges of ADHD. His goal, however, was simple: to offer hope.
"If readers take away only one thing from this book, I want it to be hope," Linehan 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 is also a 2018 graduate of the Lakewood Church Pastoral Care Internship and previously served as a men's ministry director in the Katy, Texas, area. He continues to minister through men's ministry, mentorship, pastoral care, discipleship, and public speaking. He resides in Taipei, Taiwan, with his wife and daughter, while traveling regularly to Houston.
For more information about the book or Lucid Books, visit lucidbookspublishing.com.
