After nearly three decades of addiction, U.S. Army veteran Matthew Linehan has released his debut Christian nonfiction book, Free Indeed: The Seven Keys to Unlock Your Freedom, offering hope to those struggling with addiction and spiritual bondage. The book, published by Lucid Books, outlines seven biblical principles that Linehan credits with transforming his life after a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ in January 2015.
Linehan's journey into addiction began after the suicide of his father, a trauma that led to years of substance abuse and brokenness. In his book, he combines personal testimony with Scripture-based teaching to show readers how they too can find lasting freedom. "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."
The book is designed for individuals battling addiction, shame, fear, and destructive patterns, as well as for families, ministry leaders, and caregivers. Linehan first developed the material while teaching a curriculum at a large church in Houston, Texas, alongside his wife, Emily. Seeing the impact of biblical teaching and authentic discipleship, he merged the curriculum with his own story of redemption.
Linehan emphasizes that the principles are not abstract theories but truths he has lived. "I believe this book is different because I lived it, walked it out, and came through the other side to talk about it," he explained. "These principles are not theories to me. They are biblical truths that transformed my life."
Writing the book required persistence, especially as Linehan navigates ADHD, but his message remains simple: hope. "Jesus offers abundant new life to everyone who is willing to surrender," he said. "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 co-founded Men in Christ Global Ministries, which focuses on helping men grow spiritually and become effective leaders. He is a 2018 graduate of Lakewood Church's 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, continuing his ministry internationally.
For more information about the book, visit Lucid Books' website. The publisher, Lucid Books, is an independent hybrid publisher based in Houston that partners with authors to bring their messages to readers.
