Bishop Matthews accepted Christ at an early age and was empowered by the Spirit of the Holy Ghost in 1929.  He continued to carry out the work of his forefathers, the founders of The Church of God By Faith, Elder John Bright, Bishop Aaron Matthews (father), and Elder Nathaniel Scippio (uncle).  He married Katie Mae Williams Matthews, who preceded him in death, on October 11, 1937.  They had one child, Willie Kate Matthews Richardson.

In 1937 he was appointed and called to pastor his first church, located in Belleview, Florida.  He pastored churches in Lake Alfred and Ocala, Florida.  He accepted the challenge to pastor the flock in Ozark on June 6, 1945, and continued to pastor until the late 1960s.

Bishop Matthews, also affectionately known as “Pop” had a significant impact on the lives of many people.  A man of his caliber and stature was always admired by others.  He became Bishop of The Church of God By Faith, Inc. in 1959 and remained in that position until his retirement in 1986.

During his leadership, he traveled extensively, but always took any possible opportunity to counsel, teach, preach, and provide assistance to those in need.  Due to his dedicated service and longevity, Bishop Matthews was named Man of the Year on his 75th birthday.  He was presented with the Distinguished Service Award and recognized by Governor Guy Hunt and the State of Alabama for his outstanding leadership and perseverance in Ozark.

Throughout his life, although limited by health issues in his latter days, Bishop Matthews honored his call of duty, winning the lost at all cost.  His memory will forever be treasured by the COGBF family and especially by those whom he pastored.