About
Madison • Hunter • Matthew • Rose • Noah • Ameilia
Welcome to PulpitPress. I’m Matt, and this blog is an overflow of my testimony and labor in the Word of God.
On January 19, 2003, the Lord changed my life, calling me to shepherd His flock. I served in various pastoral roles for 11 years—nine in Minnesota and two in Missouri. Now, I serve as an Elder at Woodland Family Church in Wisconsin. God has blessed me with a wonderful wife of 20 years, and we have four amazing children.
God’s goodness and mercy have followed me through life and ministry, sustaining me in trials and giving peace. This blog is my testimony of Him and His Word. Many have encouraged me, and I hope to do the same for you!
–Matt
When did you become a Christian?
I grew up in a Christian home but wasn’t saved until I was 15. Though seen as a "good kid," I was at war with God, promising to leave Him alone if He did the same. But He didn’t—and I’m so grateful for His mercy!
What is your religious background/affiliation?
My background is Baptist, specifically Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB), one of the most conservative branches. While many are familiar with Southern Baptists, IFB churches operate independently with strict beliefs.
You might wonder if I’m still part of the IFB. The short answer is no, though it's complicated. My core Christian beliefs remain unchanged, but my spirit, attitude, and many practices and preferences have been humbled. God has transformed me. Over five years, He led me through the valley of forced termination from an IFB church—a difficult journey that ultimately brought life-changing growth I might not have experienced otherwise.
You mentioned forced termination. What is that?
Forced termination occurs when a pastor is pressured to resign or dismissed without fault, moral failure, or neglect of duty. It often results from a toxic, influential minority within the church. However, the true enemy isn’t these individuals but the Devil, who works through them to harm pastors, their families, and the church. I never knew this was an issue until it happened to me. Yet, 23% to 41% of pastors across denominations will experience it at least once in their ministry.