Jay Mathis

I was born and raised in Waco, Texas—a city that shaped both my roots and my faith. I came to know Jesus as a child and have been walking with Him ever since, through seasons of deep joy and profound loss.

I attended Baylor University and have spent most of my adult life in gospel-centered ministry. I’m a former pastor, church planter, and past Executive Director of Africa Renewal—a ministry focused on equipping leaders and transforming communities in Uganda. Those years confirmed what I now know deeply: the gospel doesn’t just change our future—it changes how we see the world today.

My wife Lydia and I have been married 37 years. We have two grown children and four wonderful grandchildren. We lead Countdown to Marriage through Legacy Family Ministries. Over 125 couples have come through our home to prepare for life and marriage. At Highland Baptist Church, we teach Bible studies and classes focused on truth and spiritual formation.

Gospel Paradigm exists to help people see all of life through the lens of the gospel. I write for saints, seekers, and skeptics alike—anyone looking for clarity, hope, and truth in a world full of noise. The gospel redeems our stories and reframes our perspective. My prayer is that, through these words, you’ll see Jesus more clearly and follow Him more closely.