Conversion
In the Bible, conversion refers to the process of turning away from sin and turning toward God, embodying a fundamental transformation of the heart and mind. The term is often associated with repentance, which denotes a change of direction in one's life—moving from a path of disobedience to one of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands. The Hebrew word for repentance, "שוב" (shub), means "to turn back" or "to return," while the Greek word "μετάνοια" (metanoia) signifies a change of mind that leads to a change in behavior (Luke 15:7). The New Testament highlights the significance of conversion in the context of salvation. Jesus emphasized this in His ministry, as seen in His call for people to repent (Mark 1:15). Moreover, Acts 3:19 urges believers to "repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out," indicating that conversion is essential for receiving God's forgiveness and new life in Christ. This transformative experience is further illustrated in the lives of biblical figures such as the Apostle Paul, who underwent a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9), demonstrating that conversion is not merely an intellectual acknowledgment of truth but a profound spiritual awakening and commitment to living in alignment with God's will.
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The Nature of Conversion
By Paul Washer2.3K51:48ISA 6:5EZK 36:22EZK 36:24JOL 2:28MAT 6:33ACT 1:8PHP 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of salvation and the power of God in transforming lives. He criticizes the prevalent blasphemous preaching and shallow understanding of conversion in evangelical Christianity in America. The preacher highlights the need for a genuine revelation of God's power in salvation, rather than reducing it to a mere decision or testimony. He emphasizes that salvation is a supernatural work of the Spirit, and that without the regenerating power of God, people remain blind to the truth of Jesus.
From a Heart of Saul to a Heart of Paul
By Phil Beach Jr.3556:53ACT 9:1PHP 1:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the transformative journey from a heart of Saul, marked by pride and self-importance, to a heart of Paul, characterized by humility and a deep understanding of Christ's suffering. He highlights that suffering can either harden our hearts or soften them, leading us to recognize our limitations and ultimately to Christ's redemptive suffering. The preacher calls for a shift from a self-centered perspective to a Christ-centered one, urging believers to see how their sin affects God and to embrace the healing that comes from understanding Christ's sacrifice. The sermon encourages the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God, valuing divine things over self-importance, and to allow the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts.
True vs. False Conversions
By C.J. Cutrone1.9K55:05PSA 78:34ACT 10:2ROM 6:17ROM 6:22HEB 9:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the repetitive cycle of the Israelites in the Bible. He highlights how the people would turn to God when they needed deliverance, but would quickly forget Him once their needs were met. The preacher emphasizes that God desires to be more than just a deliverer to His people, but their true God. He quotes from Romans 6 to explain that through faith in Jesus, believers are set free from sin and become slaves to righteousness. The preacher passionately urges the audience to examine their relationship with God and ensure that they truly love and serve Him.
Apostolic Conversion
By Art Katz0ACT 9:1Art Katz emphasizes the critical distinction between being saved and being converted, urging the congregation to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. He highlights the necessity of a radical transformation akin to Saul's conversion, where one's self-interest must be placed beneath God's will. Katz warns against the deception of merely adopting apostolic language without the corresponding commitment to live it out, stressing that true conversion requires a profound surrender to God's purpose. He calls for a collective response to the question, 'Lord, what would You have for me to do?' as a means to unlock the potential for apostolic living. The sermon culminates in a challenge to abandon complacency and embrace a life fully devoted to God's calling.
Converting Sinners and Converting Christians
By Gary Wilkerson9434:15LUK 15:11Gary Wilkerson emphasizes the dual nature of conversion in his sermon, addressing both the need for non-believers to come to Christ and the necessity for many Christians to experience a deeper, more authentic faith. He uses the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate how individuals can stray from true fulfillment and how Christians can become complacent, missing the joy of a vibrant relationship with Jesus. Wilkerson encourages listeners to seek a radical transformation that reflects Christ's love and to live out their faith in a way that draws others to Him. He invites those who feel distant from God or dissatisfied with their Christian walk to embrace a new beginning in their relationship with Christ.
Apostolic Exhortation
By C.H. Spurgeon0EZK 18:30MAT 4:17LUK 13:3JHN 3:16ACT 2:38ACT 3:19ROM 10:9JAS 4:82PE 3:91JN 1:9C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the urgency and necessity of repentance and conversion in his sermon 'Apostolic Exhortation.' He highlights how Peter, after healing a lame man, boldly preached the gospel, directing the crowd's attention away from himself to Jesus Christ, urging them to recognize their sins and the need for personal transformation. Spurgeon argues that true repentance involves a heartfelt change of mind and a turning away from sin, which is essential for the forgiveness of sins. He stresses that the power to save lies not in the preacher or the sinner, but in the Holy Spirit working through the gospel. Ultimately, he calls for a genuine response to the gospel, reminding listeners that without repentance, there can be no pardon.
Dead Men Tell No Tales
By Rolfe Barnard1.7K1:01:41PRO 21:2MAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 16:192TI 2:19JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher expresses his heartbreak over the state of the world and the church. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong testimony and warns against giving a weak or uncertain sound. The preacher urges listeners to face their sin and calls for a revival of confession, heart searching, and agonizing prayer. He shares a story about a soldier who died holding onto a handbill from a meeting nine years prior, highlighting the power of a lasting testimony.
(Daniel) the Conversion of Nebuchadnezzar
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:02:50DAN 4:1Willie Mullan preaches on the conversion of Nebuchadnezzar, emphasizing the profound transformation of the once cruel king into a proclaimer of peace and the most high God. He highlights how Nebuchadnezzar's experience with God led him to desire peace for all people and recognize God's sovereignty over all nations. Mullan draws parallels between Nebuchadnezzar's journey and the experiences of believers today, urging them to seek peace and acknowledge God's greatness. The sermon underscores that no one is beyond God's reach for salvation, and that true peace comes from a relationship with the Most High. Mullan encourages believers to reflect on their own experiences with God and the peace that follows.
The Turning Point
By George Mueller0PSA 37:4MAT 6:33LUK 9:23JHN 3:3ROM 5:82CO 5:17PHP 4:19HEB 11:1JAS 1:51PE 5:7George Müller shares his dramatic conversion experience in November 1825, which transformed his life and purpose. Introduced to a prayer meeting by a friend, he was deeply moved by the genuine love and humility of the group, culminating in a profound spiritual atmosphere during prayer that led to his rebirth as a disciple of Christ. Müller reflected on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, realizing the depth of His love and feeling compelled to love Him in return. Following his conversion, he pursued theological studies and made the bold decision to become a missionary, despite facing opposition from his father, which forced him to rely solely on God for support.
(The Spiritual Man) Clear Conversion
By Denny Kenaston1.6K57:40MRK 1:3MRK 1:14MRK 1:44ACT 2:42In this sermon, the preacher discusses the process of conviction and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that when people recognize their own need and despair, they naturally begin to search for an answer. The preacher then turns to the book of Mark and reads verses 3-5 and 14-15, highlighting the importance of the gospel in meeting this need. He also mentions the love of God within the heart and how it should glow like a flame. The sermon concludes with a prayer and a reference to the importance of a clear conversion and a proper foundation in Jesus Christ for a spiritual life.
An Account of the Conversion of j.c. Ryle
By J.C. Ryle0JHN 3:16ACT 16:31ROM 1:17ROM 10:92CO 5:17GAL 2:16EPH 2:8HEB 11:6JAS 4:81JN 1:9J.C. Ryle recounts his conversion experience, which began with a pivotal moment when he was rebuked for swearing by the father of his friend Algernon Coote, leading him to reflect on the contrast between his life and that of Christians. Although he did not convert immediately, this incident laid the groundwork for his eventual transformation. During a period of illness before his final examinations in 1837, Ryle turned to Bible reading and prayer, realizing that Jesus Christ was not central in his life. A chance visit to a church service, where he was profoundly impacted by the reading of Ephesians 2:8, ultimately led to his conversion by grace through faith. Ryle's experience mirrors the Reformation's emphasis on justification by faith, marking the beginning of his commitment to uphold these principles.
Holl-03 Anatomy of Conversion
By Art Katz2.0K45:20MAT 28:19ACT 1:8ROM 8:112CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:81JN 3:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the challenges of preaching the word of God in a hostile and prejudiced world. He shares a personal story of a pastor who was feeling discouraged and ready to give up, but through prayer, received a new vision from God to become an evangelist in Muslim nations. The speaker emphasizes the need for a spiritual transformation and surrender to God's will in order to effectively reach others with the gospel. He also mentions a gospel outreach event at City College in New York City, where he relied on God's resurrection power to minister to a predominantly Jewish audience.
Conversion
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0GEN 3:15PRO 16:4ISA 43:1ZEC 3:1MAT 11:28LUK 15:10JHN 3:18ROM 9:151JN 2:1REV 12:10Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the profound significance of conversion, portraying it as the most remarkable event in the world that draws the attention of angels and delights the heart of God. He explains that while the world may dismiss conversion as a mere whim, it represents a spiritual victory over Satan, who resists every soul seeking salvation. M'Cheyne highlights that Christ stands as the advocate for those He saves, countering Satan's accusations with the truth of God's election and the transformative power of being plucked from the fire. He urges the congregation to recognize the danger of remaining unconverted and to seek Christ's mercy, as He is ready to save even the vilest of sinners. The sermon concludes with a call to those still in the fire to cry out for deliverance.
Converted by the Spirit
By Tim Keller9.2K45:52LUK 9:54LUK 12:49ACT 10:27ACT 10:34ACT 10:44In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of real conversion and spiritual transformation. He emphasizes that true conversion is initiated by God and not by human effort. The preacher also highlights the challenge to religious beliefs and practices as a part of the conversion process. He further explains that conversion is brought about through the words of the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. The sermon references the story of Cornelius and Peter from the Bible to illustrate these points.
(1 Peter - Part 28): After Conversion, the Remainder of Your Life Should Be Different
By A.W. Tozer16K23:55MAT 26:63In this sermon, the preacher encourages believers not to be discouraged by their past sins, as God has the power to make all things new. He emphasizes that we have the opportunity to start a new life at any time and leave behind our old ways. The preacher also addresses the fact that everyone knows their age and the time that has passed in their lives. He reminds the audience that they should not be concerned with what others think of them, as they will ultimately be held accountable to God. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the rest of our time and the uncertainty of the future, urging listeners to consider how they will spend the remaining time they have been given.
Reality of the Divine in Christian Experience
By Duncan Campbell9.8K48:29MAT 6:33EPH 3:8COL 2:2In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a young man who was deeply moved by the work of God. This young man's cry for Jesus to make him real led to the conversion of a police sergeant's wife and the subsequent conversion of many others. The movement spread to different parishes, with young people proclaiming that Jesus is real and urging others to turn to Him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of experiencing the ultimate reality of God through sanctification and references biblical passages that speak of the transformation of the heart.
Baptism: What Saith the Scripture?
By Harry Ironside0PSA 119:130MAT 28:19JHN 3:3ACT 2:38ROM 5:1ROM 6:3GAL 2:202TI 3:16JAS 1:51PE 3:21Harry Ironside addresses the topic of baptism, emphasizing the need for true conversion to God before one can understand its significance. He explains that baptism is not merely a ritual but a profound declaration of faith and identification with Christ's death and resurrection. Ironside distinguishes between John's baptism of repentance and Christian baptism, asserting that the latter symbolizes the believer's new life in Christ. He urges listeners to reflect on their own conversion experience and the importance of being baptized as an act of obedience to Christ's command. Ultimately, he highlights that baptism is a public affirmation of faith and should be performed with a clear understanding of its meaning.
Of Conversion.
By John Gill0PSA 19:7JER 3:12MAT 21:31LUK 22:32JHN 5:40ACT 26:181CO 6:92CO 3:16EPH 2:21PE 2:25John Gill emphasizes the distinction between conversion, regeneration, and effectual calling, explaining that conversion involves both God's action and the sinner's response. He clarifies that true conversion is an internal work of God that transforms the heart and mind, leading individuals away from sin and towards God. Gill outlines the nature of genuine conversion, which includes a heartfelt turning from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God, and from reliance on personal righteousness to faith in Christ's righteousness. He stresses that conversion is ultimately the work of God, not man, and is facilitated through the ministry of the Word. The preacher concludes that true conversion is a profound change that reflects God's grace and mercy in the lives of sinners.
The Secret Working of God
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 6:44ROM 8:16EPH 2:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the secret and mysterious workings of God in the human heart, recounting his own experience of conversion despite being raised in an environment devoid of faith. He reflects on the inexplicable nature of his desire for God at a young age, attributing it to the divine influence of the Holy Spirit. Tozer encourages listeners to recognize and respond to the Spirit's call, affirming that genuine conversion is a profound and undeniable experience. He urges those who feel the tug of God on their hearts to embrace it and follow the light of Christ.
The Full Import of Conversion 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10
By John Nelson Darby01TH 1:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes that true conversion involves a complete turning to God, where Christ becomes the central focus of one's life. He explains that conversion is not merely about relief from guilt but about receiving a new life in Christ, leading to a transformed state and purpose. Darby highlights the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, being dead to sin, and living by faith, which allows believers to walk in the Spirit and reflect Christ's glory. He stresses that true sanctification comes from recognizing that all sins are forgiven through Christ's sacrifice, leading to peace and acceptance before God. Ultimately, Darby concludes that conversion is about having Christ as everything to the soul, guiding believers to live in a way that honors Him.
Adam's Conversion
By Major Ian Thomas3.7K56:19ISA 14:12ROM 8:1ROM 16:17In this sermon, the preacher describes the human spirit as a royal residence created by God. The human personality, consisting of the mind, emotion, and will, is compared to a music room with a console. When God dwells in the royal residence, the soul is in harmony with Him, and the body becomes an amplifier of God's perfect melodies to the world. However, when Adam sinned, the devil took over the console of human personality, leading to the distortion of God's intended harmony. The preacher also discusses how emotions can lead to destructive actions, but the mind and will should be guided by rationality and self-control.
Adam's Conversion - the Fall of Man
By Major Ian Thomas2.4K56:19ISA 14:12ROM 8:1ROM 16:17In this sermon, the preacher describes the human spirit as a royal residence created by God. The human personality, consisting of the mind, emotion, and will, is compared to a music room with a console. When God dwells in the royal residence, the soul is in harmony with Him, and the body becomes an amplifier of God's perfect melodies to the world. However, when Adam sinned, the devil took over the console of human personality, leading to the distortion of God's intended harmony. The preacher also discusses how emotions can lead to destructive actions, but the mind and will should be guided by rationality and self-control.
Duncan Campbell Saved and Sanctified
By Duncan Campbell0ROM 7:24Duncan Campbell shares his profound conversion experience, which occurred unexpectedly at a dance rather than in a church setting. Gripped by the Spirit of God while playing music, he felt a deep distress that led him to a prayer meeting where his father was praying for him. After a heartfelt prayer in Gaelic, he experienced a miraculous transformation, feeling the presence of God in his life. Later, while wounded on the battlefield, he prayed for holiness and received a powerful revelation of Jesus, leading to a mini-revival among fellow soldiers. Campbell emphasizes that the true baptism of the Holy Spirit is the revelation of Jesus, which transformed his life and led others to salvation.