Transformation, redemption, and hope flourish when a prisoner encounters Jesus.
Prison can often be seen as a place devoid of hope and redemption, a place where individuals are trapped in their past mistakes. However, Justin Chung’s story is a testament to the transformative power of prison ministry in restoring faith and bringing about personal growth.
Justin spent 14 years behind bars before his release two years ago. Growing up, he had a strong foundation in the church but succumbed to the pressures of peer influence and gang culture. Wanting to fit in and be accepted, he made choices that led him down a destructive path, ultimately resulting in a gang-related shooting and his imprisonment at California’s Centinela Prison Level Three.
Encountering Jesus and the Gospel Message in Prison
It was during his time in prison that Justin encountered Jesus and heard the gospel message. Reflecting on the mercy of God and the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt, seeds of hope were planted in his heart. Despite facing an 82-year sentence, Justin cried out to God, repenting for the harm he had caused and seeking forgiveness.
His newfound faith provided him with a sense of peace, hope, and joy, with the assurance that there was a greater purpose beyond his confinement. As laws began to change for youth offenders, Justin’s sentence was reduced to 25 years to life. However, he continued to pray for mercy, and through Governor Brown’s intervention, his sentence was further commuted to 15 years to life.
While Justin still faces the uncertainty of deportation, he remains steadfast in his faith and acknowledges the incredible journey he has been on. He attributes his transformation to the grace of God, comparing it to the miraculous parting of the Red Sea.
Developing Spiritually While Behind Bars
Reflecting on his spiritual development, Justin acknowledges the significant role that World Impact played in his journey. The community of brothers in prison held him accountable, ensuring he studied, read his Bible, and memorized verses. Despite the darkness and chaos of prison life, there was a sense of community rooted in love for God.
Justin cherishes the interactions with outside volunteers, who provided fresh perspectives and fostered connections with the world beyond prison walls. These conversations and engagements helped build his faith and expand his education.
Transforming Future Servants & Leaders Through Prison Ministry
World Impact’s Prison Ministry program is based on a firm belief in the transformative power of God and His ability to bring about change in the lives of those who are incarcerated.
Our mission is rooted in the belief that individuals in prison can be called by God to participate in His Great Commission. Through our dedicated efforts, we strive to train and equip these men and women to become pastors and church planters, both within the prison walls and in the communities they were once a part of.
One of the key ways we accomplish this is by establishing church-based seminaries inside prison facilities. These seminaries provide inmates with the opportunity to receive effective training and gain vital knowledge in urban ministry and church leadership. By bringing theological education directly into the prison system, we are helping to equip individuals with the tools they need to serve as leaders and ministers within their own communities.
Believing in potential behind bars, we train and equip individuals in prison for God's Great Commission. We empower them as pastors and church planters, transforming lives within prison walls and communities they once knew. Click To TweetIn addition to providing education and training, we also recognize the importance of support and guidance during the reentry process. We work diligently to connect released prisoners with churches and ministries that can come alongside them, providing ongoing discipleship and empowerment. By creating a network of support, we aim to empower individuals to minister effectively in some of the most forgotten and marginalized areas within our cities.
Through the collaborative efforts of our team and partners, we have been able to impact the lives of thousands of inmates, offering them hope, purpose, and the opportunity for a fresh start. We believe that every individual, regardless of their past mistakes or circumstances, has the potential to experience redemption and make a positive impact in their communities.
Learn more: Three Inspiring Prison Ministry Lessons From the Book of Philemon
We are dedicated to breaking the cycle of crime and despair by investing in the spiritual development and training of those behind bars. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and supporting them throughout their journey, we are witnessing the transformation of lives within prison walls and beyond. It is our privilege to be part of this ministry and witness the power of God’s love and grace at work in the lives of individuals who were once considered lost.
In fact, when asked about how he would encourage others going through the reentry process, this is what Justin had to say:
“Wait on God because God’s timing, there’s so much purity and joy in it.”
He notes the temptation to rush into careers, relationships, or societal expectations but advises waiting for God’s timing, recognizing that impatience can lead to poor decisions.
We're dedicated to investing in the spiritual development & training of those behind bars. It's a privilege to witness God's love & grace at work in lives once considered lost. Click To Tweet
Flourishing Hope No Matter the Circumstances
Justin’s story exemplifies the profound impact that prison ministry can have on an individual’s life. It highlights how encounters with God’s mercy and the support of a faith-based community can lead to personal transformation, even in the most challenging circumstances. Justin’s journey serves as an inspiration and a reminder that no one is beyond redemption and that hope and faith can flourish, even within the confines of a prison cell.
To hear more of Justin’s inspiring story of redemption, visit our YouTube Channel. There, you can find a collection of powerful stories showcasing the transformative power of change and redemption.