Vic Porter, about his lifelong work in prison ministry and the development of his “Institute of Self-Worth” (ISW) curriculum.
Overview of Prison Ministry
Vic Porter, who has served in ministry for over 50 years, describes how his focus shifted from traditional pastoring to prison ministry. He explains that his curriculum was “birthed” during early morning study sessions where he felt led to focus on teaching grace to those who felt broken or worthless.
Key aspects of his approach include:
- Focusing on Rightness: Rather than pointing out what is wrong with an inmate, his ministry focuses on teaching them what is “right” about them, helping them discover their true identity.
- Borrowed Offenses: A major component of his teaching is the concept of “borrowed offenses”—the idea that people carry anger or resentment for offenses that do not belong to them. He views this as a primary weapon used by the accuser to keep people bound, both inside and outside of prison walls.
- The Power of Worship: Porter emphasizes that worship is a catalyst for change. He shares stories of inmates in isolation who, upon receiving a Bible, experienced profound conversions through reading and worship.
Global Reach and Impact
Porter shares that his ministry has expanded beyond the United States to include work in England, Scotland, Ghana, and the Navajo Nation. He highlights:
- Spreading the Message: He notes that his ministry reaches “the uttermost parts of the earth,” sharing an anecdote about the curriculum being delivered to a remote community by horseback.
- Empowering Former Inmates: One of his core goals has been to see former inmates, who have been transformed by the curriculum, go on to teach it to others in prisons, rehab units, and churches worldwide.
How to Connect
The hosts and Porter provide information for those interested in receiving resources or supporting the ministry:
- Resources: To request books or information about the Institute of Self-Worth, viewers are encouraged to contact the ministry via email at 4321accts@gmail.com.
- Online Curriculum: Additional materials and resources can be found at iswlive.org.
The episode concludes with an encouraging message from Porter, emphasizing that true freedom comes through the Word, and that many people outside of prison walls are just as “locked up” in their minds and hearts as those behind bars.
