Sermon Central
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Analyzing A Conversion
Contributed by Ed Wood on Jun 5, 2007 (message contributor)
Summary: You could write a book entitled “The Conversions Recorded in the Bible.” This is the story of one of those conversions.
ANALYZING A CONVERSION
INTRO: You could write a book entitled “The Conversions Recorded in the Bible.” The book would be thick, for the conversions are numerous. The book would be interesting, for the types of conversions are unique. The book would have a universal appeal, for many kinds of people experienced a conversion.
The Book of Joshua contains an interesting conversion. It is the conversion of a prostitute named Rahab. A careful analysis of her conversion would be profitable. Let us note its various stages.
I. CONVERSION IS PREPARED BY CONVICTION.
Joshua sent two men to Jericho to spy on the land. They lodged in the house of Rahab the harlot. The lives of these two men plus their stories of God’s favors in escaping the Egyptians brought deep conviction to Rahab. She began to wonder about the adequacy of her gods and the fulfillment of her life-style. God was convicting her that there was one God, and there was a better way to live.
Conviction is a vital part of conversion. Shame, disgust, and regret make up a part of conviction. Yet, on a more positive note, insight about God’s character and action bring conviction to people.
II. CONVERSION IS STARTED BY A CONFESSION OF FAITH.
Rahab’s actual conversion came when she acknowledged the Lord for herself. Though she was convicted that the two spies had the true God, she had to claim Him as her Lord. When she believed, the process of a new life started.
Hearing about God is good, but it does not make you a Christian. Seeing others who believe in God and admiring them does not make one a Christian. Conversion begins when we open our lives and say, “I want you, Lord, as my Savior and Lord.”
III. CONVERSION IS AUTHENTICATED BY CONDUCT.
Rahab did more than reason internally and speak externally. She lived in accordance with God’s will. Her faith in God was substantiated by her work of hiding the spies so God’s promises could be fulfilled. She risked her life for the Lord.
CONC: Authentic conversion leads to godly conduct. To be converted to the Lord will mean to live a life for the Lord.
