A society affected by violence experiences no peace or rest. In 2024, it is estimated that over 1.2 million violent crimes were committed in the USA. Commonly, about 30–40% of violent crimes tend to involve weapons. In that same year, there were 24 active shootings, 3 of which were mass killings.
How do we address the injustices, hatred, resentments, and deep inner wounds experienced by so many people—the pain, anger, and frustration that fuel violence?
The Answer in the Word of God
We find the answer to healing humanity in the Word of God:
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)
Countless testimonies have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that there is only one spiritual weapon capable of transforming minds and hearts: the Word of God, which, according to Ephesians 6, is the sword of the Spirit.
The Mission of UBB
The Universal Church, through the work of Universal Beyond Bars (UBB), is fully committed—with the support of its pastors, congregants, and volunteers—to distributing thousands of Bibles to inmates in prisons located in key prison states where UBB is active. This major outreach initiative is called Exchanging the Weapon.
Inmates will receive the Word of God in the form of the Bible with Annotations of Faith by Bishop Macedo, which will assist them in their study and comprehension. Their hands will hold a different “weapon”—a spiritual one that brings peace, life, transformation, healing, and salvation, and nurtures a new mind and heart.
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul…” (Psalm 19:7)
The Power of the Sword of the Spirit
Only the sword of the Spirit—the Bible—has the power to heal, convert a soul, and transform a life through faith! It never returns without results because it is living and powerful.
“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void…” (Isaiah 55:11)
Bishop Bira Joshua explains:
“When you bless someone, the Lord blesses your life. This August, The Universal Church, with its pastors, assistants, and congregants, has engaged in donating Bibles. We are calling it ‘Exchanging the Weapon.’ Many people are losing their lives in these active shootings that happen all over the globe, but especially here in the USA. When we give the Bible to somebody, we save souls. We will distribute Bibles in prisons. Only in Texas, we will distribute 3,000 Bibles to save those in prisons, those in need of spiritual help.”
Watch the video below to learn more and see the examples of Mr. Manning and Ms. Sheila, who both received Bibles through the UBB:
How to Participate in the Bible Drive
Give the gift that never perishes to those who are hungry and thirsty for God’s Word.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
Join the Exchanging the Weapon Bible Drive with The Universal Church and Universal Beyond Bars (UBB) by calling the number below and donating toward one or more Bibles:
