Trust me, do not attend this church. It's cult like, have you ever heard any other pastor say that if you leave his church, you can't come back unless you speak to him? Chi said it this Easter service, one of the many lunatic things he says. I know more people who left the church and faith because of him than come to the faith because of him. Let that sink in for a bit. And if you were to tell him or any of his followers that, they'd spin it as away with some ridiculousness. Initially this church might be alluring and attractive with his blunt bold proclamation of faith, but don't buy into it, the church isn't creating disciples, it's creating sycophants. You'll wake up one day and realize the wasted years you spent at this church when you could have gone to a normal healthy church and built authentic deep Christ relationship. read more

This church is one of the most clique-ist churches ever. If you don't "clicque" in somehow with the original members of the church, you'll never get invited to their outside hangouts which is where the real bonding opportunities are. Of course at first you'll feel all warm and fuzzy because every church does that for newcomers but you hear the inside jokes, the hangouts, and realize you are not and will not be invited to them so you'll just be an outsider without initially feeling that way. All the rave reviews are coming from people that are IN the cliques. Of course because they are in the community, they think it's great. They don't realize how alienated outsiders feel and never bother. As for the pastor and his messages, it was refreshing at first but you are literally going to hear the same message every sunday, almost word for word. I get that's the core of the faith but by now, I already know Jesus died on the cross for me 2000 years ago and without believing this, there is no faith. It would be nice for the church to do help others, provide acts of service to others (especially the less fortunate), instead of doing nothing on the excuse of believing that Jesus died for you 2000 years ago and that's all you need. read more

If you are looking for a church on yelp, that means you've hit the rock bottom. That's great, because that means you know exactly what you're looking for: a real church. I have been here since January of 2012. I started off from Exodus3LA (same church, but different location) and I recently moved to Irvine so I attend Exodus3 Irvine service. Since I love my church so much, I wanted to come and give us a review for y'all. Don't you get pissed when people tell you, "OH EM GEE! This restaurant's food is SO good! We must try!" So you go with your family/friends/lovers to find the food to be NOT so good? I hate that. I hate being misled. I am not here to mislead you. I seriously want to tell you how amazing this church is. WHEEEEEEE!!! Please don't mistaken me and think I'm telling you that this church is "perfect." There's no such a thing. I'm telling you- I can't stand some people at my church. However, it's not about me. It's not about you. It's not about us. It's just about Jesus. Come and learn who you are in Christ, and how much He loves you. I am reminded weekly on how much God loves me, and who I am in Christ. It's an amazing thing to know who we are in Christ. Once we realize how much God loves us, your life will be changed. My life is changing!!! I am SO happy and SO thankful for this church on earth. Service: Every Sunday @11:00AM and weekly Branch Meetings (weekly gospel reminder) all over SoCal. Come get to know your Savior. He IS your Father!!! He loves and cares for you because you are His child! You're worth it, BABY!!! See you soon, fellow believers~!!! read more

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This is the best place to encounter the reality & truth of Jesus. My entire life as a "church-goer", I've never understood who this Jesus was other than the fact that "He died for me" (even that was confusing). What we learn at Exodus3 is called the Gospel. It's more than just His life, it's more than just His death, it's our entire significance, love, acceptance and meaning fulfilled. No commitments, and no re-commitments. The only thing you're committing to is just to believe and enjoy. We all search for meaning in our lives whether it's through relationships, financial stability, goals etc, but it all fades and dies at the end. And when it comes to Jesus, we try to find meaning by all the things we do or don't do. It's really about what Jesus has done and doing throughout our lives. A lot of what I said or other reviews may sound confusing or unclear at first but I assure you, the teaching from all of our pastors are beyond amazing. The precision & clarity of all their messages will help you find what you're searching for. This Gospel that we are taught every week is forever and it's the truest, most realist reality that I've ever encountered in my entire life. I would not trade this truth for anything. Come experience true reality, true redemption, the truth. Jesus. read more

At this church, you will learn nothing but truth. Gospel, gospel, gospel. What I enjoy so much about the way the gospel is explained is how everything is broken down with clarity. It's so clear that I am able to fully grasp and enjoy the reality of Christ. I've never experienced anything like this at other churches and I've never been so excited to come on a Sunday to listen to Gods word until now. Once you know the truth, the truth will set you free. That is what I've been experiencing at Exodus 3. Our pastor is ALWAYS reminding me of what is true. Repetition, repetition, repetition. What is that truth? It's the love of God who gave His son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins so that we may be given LIFE because WE WERE BORN SPIRITUALLY DEAD but physically alive. Jesus came to fix the fundamental problem of man which is the SPIRITUAL DEATH problem. I use to think that in order to be a good Christian I had to believe in Jesus AND also try to change my behavior as well (be a good person, don't drink, say bad words, love, basically my own effort to be accepted by God.). But the bigger problem is not about fixing our behavior so that we can try to be "good moral people". The problem is that we were DEAD and needed LIFE, which can only be found in Christ Jesus. The gospel is about LIFE and DEATH. Religion is about GOOD and EVIL. Everything that is emphasized at this church is not about what I/we do. It's about what Jesus HAS DONE for us and that we are nothing (like dust). But, God loved us and so he came to save us. Everything is about Jesus and not about us. This is what I am constantly reminded of which keeps me humble...acknowledging I am nothing. So, if you haven't encountered Jesus, you will after coming to Exodus 3. It's raw, it's real, it unfiltered truth without beating around the bush. The truth is everything we NEED to hear because our life depends on it. read more

Exodus3 - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California

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I didn't grow up in church, so when I decided to heed a friend's advice and try out churches, I really didn't understand what most of them were talking about. An old friend invited me to Exodus (which I thought was kind of a weird name for a church but that's neither here nor there) and for whatever reason, the way Pastor Chi presented the gospel spoke to me. I can now say that I am a true believer with what I feel is an awesome family of believers who have stood by me through thick and thin (including a massive life-threatening freak accident). I feel like the message of Christ preached over and over at this church hits right at the core of the Christian faith. As a skeptic, when I asked questions, the pastors did not shy away from and were in fact very receptive to any questions I had. After 4 years at this church, I have found that I am addicted to the message. A few weeks without being fed truth makes me starving. If you decide to come check it out, I'd encourage you to get involved in the branches (bible study/ meeting groups) and other activities to talk to the members face to face about their experiences. I think you'll find that everyone is very warm and welcoming. Mostly though, I'd encourage you to relax and enjoy the freedom you find in Jesus. read more

You know what's changed my life? JESUS has changed my life. And I never got that life changing gospel of Jesus Christ until I came to Exodus3 in 2007. And I've been going to church my whole life learning about all I must DO, instead of learning about all that Jesus has DONE. You know how good this gospel is? So good that I used to happily drive 140 miles each Sunday from Northridge to Irvine to hear this message. (Luckily, they brought the church to LA a few years ago.) 8 years later and the message remains the same at Exodus3. Gospel of Jesus and that's it. Cause we've tasted the best and we'd never ever settle for anything less. And the children's ministry focus is the same: the gospel message, from infants/toddlers all the way to youth. I am so thankful that our children will hear this truth that will give them life, set them free, and bring light into their lives, to help them face this world and conquer it. Best church ever? Yes, because it's all about Jesus. read more

I have been a Christian my whole life and believe in the triune God who died for me to save me from sin and death. Not until coming to Exodus3 did I realize that I believed in so many misconceptions about who God is and what being a Christian meant. I've lived my life always asking what more can I give to God, and asking how do I become a better Christian. Consequently, I would always feel as if I wasn't good enough because I wasn't maturing or reaching some deeper level of spirituality or spiritual discipline. Exodus3 preaches the gospel in its true, unadulterated form. The gospel is not to see how much Jesus has done for you, therefore, now what can you do for him, or how can you serve him. The gospel is, see, believe, and enjoy how Jesus has done everything for you. Because of this truth, I can now live freely in who he has made me to be. And who I am is righteous, pure, and holy because Jesus is those things and he lives in me. I don't have to try harder to be any of these things because I already am. And from this, I can live freely and boldly. This is truly good news, indeed. read more

The best and only church I know that has what I need...the Gospel. Great people and great places to eat. What more could you ask for? I have been going to this church since 2007 and am still excited and blessed every week. I might come in tired and stressed but I always leave with a sense of peace, confidence and craving for more of the Gospel. What this world has to offer never seems enough for me because whether it's love, success or financial stability, these never seem to satisfy. Exodus3 has helped me refocus my eyes on this man/God named Jesus who calls me significant, loved, accepted and meaningful regardless of what this world makes us feel. Now if that's not just the best thing you've ever heard, then I don't know what else there is to say. Come and check it out, you won't regret it! read more

Brand new location, same great gospel. Pastor Chi takes his direct and simple approach down the street to provide a larger location to spread the truth of Jesus. This is a place to go to learn and grow in your faith. It's also a place to go if you're just curious. Pastor Chi breaks things down simply so that the underlying truth of the gospel is there: without Jesus there is no life. Add that to a team of volunteers and staff who are open, honest, and welcoming; and you have a recipe for success. I appreciate that they embrace the imperfectness of themselves as people and focus more on the perfect love and importance of the gospel. The culture is driven by, "our ministries do not take precedence over our members" and I have seen first hand the tough conversations and grace provided to those who need it. I'm proud and blessed to call Exodus3 my home. read more

I come here to hear truth and to hear that I am a beloved child of God. I come here because I enjoy Good News (Gospel). I attend and be involved when I can because of the importance of enriching my mind with TRUTH on who is Jesus. What Jesus has finished. Why He did what He did. And most of all, what it all means to us. It's not a church where it gives moral applications and bark at you to blindly believe without giving you the gospel variables. E3 encourages you to listen, learn, and enjoy the written word and guides you to JESUS. I mean, the first time I came to this church was around December of 2007......and I'm still here, learning, listening, receiving, and seriously enjoying the LIFE OF CHRIST IN ME....even after all this time has passed. O_o Time flies...sheeesh! SOOOO if you are in need of some gospel nutrients, then come on out on Sundays. If your Sundays are busy then they have several midweek branches (small groups of people who congregate and do fantastic bible study). Oh...and they also have delicious lunch served after service ....oh...and if you like sports, they play after Sundays once in a while....basketball, softball...ah....and one time there was volleyball during the spring season. Volleyball is not my thing.....using my own body limbs as an essential part of the game is not my ideal sport.....ah but I digress!!! My point is...YES they may have sports. YES they may have mid-week branch. YES they may have lunch served...But the most important and the main reason why we are here is ....YES THEY HAVE GOSPEL. Thank you and have a good day. read more

When I was searching for a church, friends and family advised me to find a church that: 1. had a good pastor whose messages spoke to me 2. bore fruit of the spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, etc.) for God's kingdom 3. would help me to grow and learn At Exodus3, I am finding: 1. great pastors whose messages, encouragement and prayers empower me and point me to Jesus 2. not just a handful but a whole congregation of Christians living out their faith and living powerful, joyful lives 3. a deeper, clearer and more real understanding of truth and God's love for us through Sunday messages, mid-week branch (bible study) and being part of Covenant Ministries ...and I'm excited to keep receiving! :) read more

Only Jesus centered worship and Jesus centered people here. If that's your thing, this is the place to be.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a seeker, or just want some coffee, Exodus3 is a great place to be on Sundays. The gospel message as the most fundamental truth is a consistent theme as it should be - and we are reminded of that truth all the time because we need to be. There are no strings attached, no fluff, and no fine print. Also no donuts, usually. Pastor Chi here is filterless speaker and says things we all need to hear, but might not like at that moment. If you want to get'r done, come here, and be ready. read more

If you're looking for "religion", there's no end of it out there. There are tons of organizations & institutions that will try to change your life from being a bad person into what they would define as "good"... What blew my mind about Exodus3 was the straight forward preaching of the GOSPEL. The simple message that - it's not about what you do to try & make God happy with you - but rather, what God has already done, is now doing, & will do for you to save and bless you. The simple, historical, traditional, beautiful gospel. And that's what E3 is all about; no laser light show, no fancy presentations, no giant auditorium with a 15-piece worship rock band - just the simple & priceless truth of God's love for you & me. This is seriously the best church I've ever gone to. And I constantly thank God that he lead me thru those doors in Sept. 2011... Visit Exodus3 - I promise you, you won't regret it. read more

This is home for me. I have been attending this church for 5 (going on 6) years. This review could be super long if I wrote every single thing that has changed for me and how the gospel has transformed me. I will try to keep this fairly short. People crave different things from Church. Love. Community. Friendship. This church does those things, but they are secondary to what is most important. The proclamation of the truth and who we are in the Gospel is what this church is about. This truth that unites people and transforms them creates community. Builds friendships. Shows how we are loved by God. The most important thing that will happen to anyone while they are here is encountering the reality of Jesus. Jesus is real and has given life to all who believes. That is what you will get here. I know it sounds too simple to be true, but this is truth. Jesus declares in John 14:6 "I am the way and the truth and the life". He came to give us life. I could write an extra long essay about this, but my best advice to you is to come out. Don't hesitate. There is a level of peace and freedom that I have experienced since being more rooted in the Gospel. I want that for everyone. If you have questions, then ask them! Everyone has questions because the Gospel seems like it is too good to be true at times. The truth is that good. I will say this. I grew up in Church but didn't care for it. I've had my ups and downs. A lot of downs during certain years. I've been coming to Exodus 3 for 5 years. I've had many questions. They have each been answered in due time. This is my home. This church is my family. I invite anyone who reads this to come and enjoy the Gospel along with me. read more

The best church hands down, or up, or what have you. I've been with Exodus3 for a long time and there's never a dull moment when hearing the gospel and truth ever stopped stirring my heart and spirit. To some, it may be too basic or repetitive but that's exactly the key to understanding and experiencing the reality of Jesus. When I hear an amazing story and it's true on top of that, I would want to hear it over and over again. When you love something or someone, you always want more of it or him/her. You'd want to know everything there is about that person or object, almost like obsessing over them. Although my love and interest for Jesus and gospel is not perfect, I learned that God is the one who is obsessing over me because His love for me is perfect. With that being said, the people here are great and very welcoming. Having been at Exodus3 for a long time, the messages have never really changed; the only thing that changed is me because now I know the gospel on a whole other level that I thought I would never reach. So, I challenge you to come and experience Exodus3 for yourself and you be the judge. read more

In the past decade that I've growing in the Gospel at E3, I've witnessed individuals, including myself, literally being transformed by the reality of Jesus from withdrawn, confused, doubtful, burnt out, apathetic, or dying to free, spiritually alive, happy, light, clear minded, and empowered brothers and sisters in Christ. How can different people from different walks of life have something in common? It's because God is real. Come and get connected to LIFE/TRUTH/LOVE aka Jesus! He is the answer. read more

This really pains me to have to write this review, because I've been a Christian for almost 40 yrs and would always want to encourage the Church in any way possible. However, I believe in being honest and I wouldn't want people to be misled as I was after reading these reviews and then attending for 2-3 years. I started there a few years ago around 2012 and it was a time before they started really getting more people to come. Some of the leaders had mentioned that Yelp reviews had driven a lot of traffic to their church. However, I have seen at least a dozen really faithful people leave from getting burned particularly by the pastor. He really isn't all that friendly or respectful. His team of volunteers, are the ones that were very welcoming and loving which is why I got hooked. They are a 5, as far as building community goes, though I think if you aren't Asian it takes longer to fit in. The preaching at the time started out with sound teaching with nothing that seemed out of line with the Bible. However, towards the end it was a lot of really rude joking from the pulpit saying things like "you all are sinners, but I'm not!!" (ha ha, lol, really?). He actually would almost yell it. It's more like a narcissistic Korean man thing. In fact, the sermons started to say the same things about how crappy we are and how great he is. He also kept saying that he preaches the Gospel, which I think he meant that he would enlighten us with a deeper understanding of Jesus who is foreshadowed in the old testament. He doesn't give bullet points about how to live out a christian life like some other churches. This was perfectly fine with me, until the Gospel (translated GOOD News) turned into a lot of badgering and BAD news. I started to tune it out, but there were a lot of cringe worthy moments. What pushed it over the edge for me and many others was how people were treated as volunteers, i.e. like children who were to take directives from him but not have opinions. There was no financial disclosure at the end of the years and they were not forthcoming. The pastor has no accountability. Those who were his right hand people were non-seminary trained, well meaning, "Yes" men. I attended events so I got to know a lot of nice people. What dawned on me as time went on was that some people just left the church, never to return b/c they didn't feel appreciated or were burned. There were quite a few acquaintances that I actually miss to this day. I only know about my closer friends' experiences bc they have confided in me. There were a lot of professionals at this church who brought their best talents. Chefs, accountants, teachers, physicians, lawyers, etc. The positive for me is that I still have some of these friends. This review has taken me years to write bc I was so profoundly disappointed. I absolutely love God, but I still have not recovered. I have church hopped for a while and the experience at E3 has left a bad taste in my mouth that I still am not part of a regular church community, other than my Christian friends and family. Also, I was never reached out to after I left. Guess I was just another head to count. Praise- was anointed sometimes, lively. It's a band, and they take the time to praise and worship rather than just do a requisite 1-2 songs. They ended each service with the Same song "10 Thousand Reasons" for months on end with the pastor going up to lead it. Praise leader would have been 10 thousand times better. I think what went wrong was that the growing numbers of people got to the pastor's head and he stopped being humble. I'm all for forgiveness and people being transformed by God but if that man doesn't have accountability he's simply putty in demonic hands. read more

Jesus is the christ the son of the living God. If you are looking for a church that will teach you the fundamentals of the gospel and set you free from sin and death than come to Exodus 3 and hear the truth about what Jesus has done for us 2000 years ago. This church is not a feel good church. Its not about making friends are putting your trust in men its about encountering the reality of Jesus Christ and what he has done for us on the cross. I have been coming out to Exodus 3 for 13 years and I am african american. The great thing about the gospel is it has no color lines but you have to open to wanting to here the truth and not focus on lies. Remember your feeling go up and down like a roller coaster and they will leave you feeling condemned and out of place and thinking no one likes you. But I am here to say that the truth will set you free and when you encounter the reality of Jesus you will be set free from all the garbage and baggage that has been burned in your mind for years. The stronghold and the fortress and the additive spirits where all broken on the cross when Jesus Christ shed is blood for us. There is life in the blood of Jesus Christ. All we are left to do is receive and believe in God Finished work. Rest in the truth and come out and hear the Gospel message at Exodus 3 the movement. read more