Why Did Justin Kintzel Leave Liberty University? A Tale of Faith, Doubt, and a Power Trip
Ah, Liberty University. The bastion of Christian values, the beacon of conservative thought, the place where you can get your degree in graphic design and learn how to interpret the Book of Revelation while simultaneously mastering the art of the perfect power chord. It’s a place where dreams are made (or at least, that’s what they tell you on the brochures).
But what happens when those dreams get a little too real? What happens when the shining light of Liberty University starts to cast an uncomfortable shadow? This is the story of Justin Kintzel, a former worship leader at Liberty, and his journey from “blessed be your name” to “what in the world just happened?”
The “Blessed Be Your Name” Era
Justin Kintzel, a Colorado native who found himself drawn to Liberty University like a moth to a flame, was a man on a mission. He had a passion for music, a love for worship, and a heart set on bringing those two things together on the hallowed grounds of Liberty.
His journey began at a College for a Weekend (CFAW) event back in 2004. He heard the Campus Band play “Blessed be Your Name,” and that was it. He knew, with a certainty that could only be inspired by divine intervention, that he was destined to lead worship at Liberty.
His destiny manifested in the form of a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design, a gig as the Campus Band worship pastor, and a whole lot of “blessed be your names” sung with gusto. He even met his wife, Ashley, while at Liberty. It was a dream come true, a love story worthy of a Hallmark movie, except with more power chords and less cheese.
The Unexpected Transition
Life, however, had other plans for Justin and Ashley. A sudden staff shakeup at Liberty left Justin with the unwelcome news that he was no longer employed. He had poured years of his life into Liberty, building a community and sharing his passion for worship. Suddenly, he was out, and the rug had been pulled out from under his family’s feet.
The “Dark Season of Doubt”
This unexpected transition sent Justin into a spiral of doubt and uncertainty. He had been a pillar of faith, a leading voice in worship at Liberty, but now he felt lost and confused. His faith, once unwavering, was tested in ways he never expected.
It’s important to note that Justin Kintzel is a Dove-nominated singer. That’s right, the guy who was leading worship at Liberty was actually a recording artist with a career on the rise. He was living the dream, and then bam, life threw him a curveball. It’s a reminder that even the most successful people experience hardship, and that faith can be a fragile thing when faced with unexpected life changes.
The “Power Trip”
So, what happened at Liberty that led to Justin’s departure? The whispers in the halls of the university point to one man: David Nasser.
David Nasser, a man known for his “strong personality” and “direct approach,” was brought in as the Executive Vice President of Spiritual Development at Liberty. His arrival coincided with a wave of changes that shook the foundations of Liberty, including Justin Kintzel’s sudden departure.
Some say that Nasser’s “power trip” led to a purging of staff and a shift in the direction of the university’s spiritual development. Others say that Justin’s departure was simply a matter of staffing changes, a necessary move to ensure the long-term sustainability of the university.
The “In All This We Know” Era
Regardless of the specific details, one thing is clear: Justin Kintzel’s experience at Liberty University has left a lasting impact on his life. He has emerged from the darkness, his faith renewed, and he has channeled his experiences into his music. His new single, “In All This We Know,” is a testament to his resilience and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.
Lessons Learned
Justin Kintzel’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of blindly trusting institutions and the importance of staying true to your own values. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, faith can be a source of strength and that even the most successful people can experience setbacks.
Justin’s story also highlights the importance of self-reflection and the need to question the motives of those in power. When institutions prioritize their own agendas over the well-being of their employees, it’s time to take a step back and re-evaluate your own beliefs.
The Future is Bright
Justin Kintzel may have left Liberty University, but he has not lost his faith, his passion, or his voice. He is using his platform to share his story and inspire others to find their own path in life. He is a shining example of resilience and perseverance, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope.
So, what happened to Justin Kintzel? Did he leave Liberty because of a power trip? Was it a necessary staffing change? Or was it something else entirely? The answer, like so many things in life, is probably a little bit of both. But one thing is for sure: Justin’s story is a reminder that life is full of unexpected turns, and sometimes the best way to navigate those turns is to trust your own instincts and follow your own heart. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll even find yourself singing “Blessed be your name” once again, but this time, on your own terms.