Micah Andrew Wilder’s story is a compelling testimony of transformation from devout Mormonism to a profound Christian faith. Born in 1985 in Muncie, Indiana, into a devout Mormon family, Wilder was the third of four children. Raised on the banks of the White River, Micah’s childhood was marked by a deep yearning for an intimate relationship with God. Despite being deeply entwined with the teachings and practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there remained within him an unfulfilled longing for a connection with God that was deeper and more personal than what he experienced within Mormonism.
Early Life and Increased Mormon Devotion
The Wilder family’s move to Alpine, Utah, after Micah’s mother, Lynn, was hired as a professor at the LDS university BYU, marked a significant turning point in Micah’s life. Immersed in the heart of Mormonism, Micah’s devotion to his faith deepened. Throughout his teenage years, he held numerous leadership positions within the Church and strived tirelessly to achieve righteousness through its laws, ordinances, and works. Despite his efforts, Micah felt a growing dissatisfaction, unable to quench the thirst within his soul for true assurance and forgiveness of sins.
Missionary Work and a Fateful Encounter
After attending BYU for a semester, Micah embarked on what was supposed to be the most important two-year mission of his life in Orlando, Florida. It was here, just months into his mission, that Micah’s path took a dramatic turn during a confrontation with Pastor Benson, a Baptist minister. This encounter exposed Micah to the biblical gospel of grace for the first time, challenging him to read the Bible without the lens of Mormon doctrine. This challenge sparked a relentless quest, leading Micah to read the New Testament a dozen times over twenty months, ultimately guiding him to the truth of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
The Turning Point: Embracing the Light of Christ
Facing immense personal and spiritual turmoil, Micah came to a profound realization: salvation is not earned through religious merits but is a gift through faith in Christ alone. This epiphany led to a stark alienation from his Mormon community and intense scrutiny from Church leaders, culminating in an early return from his mission. Despite the backlash, Micah’s newfound faith in Jesus Christ as his savior remained unshaken.
Rebuilding Life on New Foundations: Finding Identity in Christ
Upon returning to Utah, Micah faced the daunting task of redefining his life and relationships in light of his new faith. He began ministering the gospel to those closest to him, starting with his high school sweetheart, Alicia, whom he married shortly after his mission ended. Together, they have faced the challenges and joys of building a life founded on Christian beliefs, blessed with three sons: Jacob, Benjamin, and Timothy.
