My name is Jay Matthew Barnes. Most people just call me Matt. I’ve been a follower of Jesus for almost thirty-five years, married for twenty years, a dad for over eight years, and a nerd for a long, long time!

I grew up in the church, went to a Christian college (where I met my wife), and eventually graduated from seminary.  I then moved from my beloved home-state of Texas to the wilds of Los Angeles, where my I lived for over sixteen years.  I finished my PhD, worked in the Church, served as a missionary, and became a father in SoCal.  Now I serve as the Vice President of Formation of Formation at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky.

My passion as of late has been centered on being more missional. I spend an inordinate amount of time thinking about how I can participate in the work of God in Central Kentucky, whether through disciple-making, pursuing justice, or equipping God’s people to be more missional and incarnational. A lot of what I on my blog and talk about on my podcast is focused on God’s call in our lives to go and make disciples of all peoples!

I also write about my journey as a follower of Jesus, a family man, and a nerd. Feel free to interact with my posts as you see fit!

If you want to contact me directly, please use the form below.  Thanks!

Speaking, Mentoring, and More

If you would like to know more about booking me for speaking engagements, mentoring, church consulting, and more, please CLICK HERE.  Thanks!