Who Are We?

Get Out of the Bus is a nonprofit 501c3, non-denominational, community outreach ministry. Utilizing a double-decker, open-top bus, Get Out of the Bus seeks to meet the spiritual needs of people and bring unity to the community. Our goal is to go wherever people are and show them God’s love. Our ministry is founded on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the redemptive work that He did on the cross on our behalf as human beings. When a community comes together, unified by a common bond in Christ, not only will lives be forever changed, but crime rates will decrease, as peace and joy are restored within the community.

About Our Founder

Jon Clouse and wife Lisa, with children: Gracie and Caleb

The founder and pastor of Get Out of the Bus is Jon Clouse. Jon is married to Lisa, and has two beautiful children. Jon completed seminary studies in 2012, at Virginia Beach Theological Seminary. Jon was saved on January 9, 2000 at the age of 23. Jon is thankful for God’s grace in his life, as He has sustained him through every storm of life. As God tells us in His Word,

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
(1 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)

Jon has seen God do the impossible: heal the broken-hearted, bring rest to the weary, and give life to the hopeless. Accepting Jesus as his Savior is the biggest and most worthwhile decision Jon has ever made, and it is his desire to see others transformed by the power of the Gospel. Christ is in the heart transplant business and He wants all people to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). Get Out of the Bus believes that God’s people need to take a stand for the faith, and proclaim God’s truth to all men. We must not remain quiet; we must not be ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16). From our family to yours, may God bless you as we journey through life together.

What about the name?

The name “Get Out of the Bus” comes from the story of Jesus walking on water, as recorded in the Bible in Matthew 14.

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:28-33, ESV)

Christ wants all of us to become solely dependent upon Him. In and of ourselves, we are insufficient; but when we place our faith in Him, He can accomplish great things in and through us. He commands us all to get out of comfort zones and make an impact in our world for His glory.

Why the double-decker bus?

The newly renovated double-decker bus complete with official “Get Out of the Bus” branding.

Here in Oklahoma, there is a church on nearly every street corner, and it is our desire to see these churches overflowing with people from all different walks of life. However, we believe we do not need more church buildings; instead, we need more authentic disciples and resourceful churches. We are not looking to build another multi-million dollar structure that sits empty, except for a few hours every week. After all, the word “church” represents “a body of believers”, that should not be confined to only a structural building.

A bus is mobile and is able to go to people, meeting them exactly where they are. We strive to be as resourceful as possible, and use our funding to make a direct impact on a community. We have the ability to use our God given talents to change lives in the people all around us. Christ tells us to go to the people proclaiming the good news (Matthew 28). It is our prayer that the unchurched will hear about the love of Jesus Christ, and that they will be forever changed.

What does the bus ministry look like?

The bus is a completely renovated, double-decker, British-style tour bus. It features newly upholstered seating on the bottom and top. The top seating is removable, so that for certain events a praise and worship band may use the upper level as a stage. For these types of outdoor events, the bus will utilize generators to provide self-sufficient power. The vision is for the bus to drive to various neighborhoods and communities in the North Tulsa area, park in a suitable venue (such as a vacant parking lot, with permission from its owner), and conduct a service with praise and worship music, a Gospel message and invitation to accept Christ, and fellowship. Area pastors and counselors will be on hand to connect with the people who attend and/or make a decision for Christ.