Are you converted?

Church life is often full of questions. From asking each other how the week was, to surveys about training to basics about where the facilities are onsite. A recent talk I heard reminded me how the most important questions can get covered over & forgotten.

So let’s make one of the most important explicit: ‘Are you converted?’

Before you answer the question, you need to be clear what is asked. Conversion at it simplest is about ‘change’ or ‘turning’. In Biblical thinking, conversion is another name for the response of faith & repentance (eg. Acts 3v19 ‘Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out’). Conversion is the only right response to the fact that Jesus is Lord & His kingdom has come (Mark 1v15). Conversion is the result of the New Birth given by the Holy Spirit (John 3) & leads us to justification.

Before answering, we must also be clear what is not being asked. Conversion is not about the experience – but the fruit. There are all sorts of ‘conversion experiences’ in life. Trivially, you can be converted from instant to espresso coffee. Even relating to God, there are a variety of ‘conversion experiences’ - CS Lewis experienced one conversion to theism, a later one to Christianity. It is not the experience – but the fruit. Conversion is not about having a moment you look back to when you ‘decided for Christ’, any more than it is about knowing the right doctrinal answers with cool indifference. The truly converted are seen only by their ongoing life of dependence & obedience to Jesus (Faith & repentance lived out).

Let me ask again: ‘Are you converted?’

It is a vital question.  For, without conversion you have only fear in the face of eternity.

Without conversion you still stand outside Christ’s Kingdom, bearing your own sins. Without conversion our church will never be the salt of this decaying world, & light to its darkness. Without conversion Father, Son & Spirit will never have His name honoured.

Of all the questions that pass your mind & lips this week at church – make sure you have answer the most important.

In Him

Mark Smith
(Assistant Pastor)