Practical Religion - Self-Inquiry (Part 4)
J.C. Ryle emphasizes that true conversion and the new birth through the Holy Spirit are essential for genuine salvation and a transformed Christian life.
In this sermon, J.C. Ryle teaches on the vital necessity of conversion and the new birth as foundational to the Christian life. He explains the spiritual transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit that enables believers to serve God and enjoy eternal life. Ryle also outlines the evidences of true conversion, encouraging self-examination and a heartfelt pursuit of holiness.
Text
(5) Let me ask, in the fifth place, whether we know anything by experience of conversion to God.
Without conversion there is no salvation. \\\"Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall never enter the kingdom of heaven.\\\"-- \\\"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.\\\"--\\\"If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.\\\"--\\\"If any man be in Christ he is a new creature.\\\" (Matthew 18:3, John 3:3, Romans 8:9, 2 Corinthians 5:17)
We are all by nature so weak, so worldly, so earthly-minded, so inclined to sin, that without a thorough change we cannot serve God in life, and could not enjoy Him after death. Just as ducks, as soon as they are hatched, take naturally to water, so do children, as soon as they can do anything, take to selfishness, lying, and deceit; and none pray or love God, unless they are taught. High or low, rich or poor, gentle or simple, we all need a complete change--a change which is the special office of the Holy Ghost to give us. Call it what you please--new birth, regeneration, renewal, new creation, quickening, repentance--the thing must be had if we are to be saved: and if we have the thing it will be seen.
Sense of sin and deep hatred of it, faith in Christ and love to Him, delight in holiness and longing after more of it, love for God\\\\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Necessity of Conversion
- Without conversion there is no salvation
- Scriptural commands to be born again
- The natural human condition is sinful and weak
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II. The Nature of the New Birth
- Called by many names: regeneration, renewal, quickening
- A thorough change wrought by the Holy Spirit
- Essential for serving God and enjoying Him eternally
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III. Evidence of True Conversion
- Sense of sin and hatred of it
- Faith and love toward Christ
- Delight in holiness and desire for growth
Key Quotes
“Without conversion there is no salvation.” — J.C. Ryle
“We all need a complete change--a change which is the special office of the Holy Ghost to give us.” — J.C. Ryle
“If any man be in Christ he is a new creature.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Examine your own heart to see if you have experienced true conversion.
- Seek the Holy Spirit's work in your life for renewal and growth in holiness.
- Cultivate a genuine hatred of sin and a deep love for Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is conversion necessary according to J.C. Ryle?
Because without conversion, no one can enter the kingdom of heaven or truly serve God.
What does the new birth entail?
It is a complete spiritual change brought by the Holy Spirit, making a person a new creation in Christ.
How can one recognize true conversion?
By a genuine hatred of sin, faith in Christ, love for God, and a longing for holiness.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in conversion?
The Holy Spirit is the agent who performs the new birth, renewing and quickening the believer.
Are all people naturally inclined to sin?
Yes, all are naturally weak and earthly-minded, needing a thorough change to serve God.