Ivan, a former cop and current pastor, shares his journey from alcoholism to sobriety and how his relationship with Christ transformed his life. His story powerfully illustrates that addiction's root cause is universal across all struggles—whether substance abuse or other sins—and only Christ can provide true healing. • Ivan describes himself succinctly as "a cop, a criminal, and now with Christ" • He details how he manipulated AA meetings and testing requirements while still drinking • The cycle of addiction involved thousands of empty promises to quit • Ivan explains why hitting "rock bottom" doesn't lead to repentance—only God's goodness does • The difference between secondhand Christianity and personal relationship with Christ • How sanctification is a process rather than a single moment of transformation • Ivan highlights 2 Corinthians 5:21 as the "exchange" that changed everything • Six years sober, Ivan credits seeing himself as a new creation in Christ • The importance of empathy for both cops and criminals in understanding struggle • Finding freedom by following Jesus rather than relying on willpower Let's connect! Instagram: @theundercoverpastor Facebook: @theundercoverpastor Tik Tok: @theundercoverpastor Youtube: @dalesutherlandundercoverpastor Website: theundercoverpastor.com
