Additional Principles that Relate to Conversion (Psalm 19:7a)
Introduction:
1. This morning we illustrated how God's law is designed to convert all souls. a. We learn from 2 Peter 3:9 that all souls matter to God. b. The book of Acts shows how people from different backgrounds were converted after being taught God's perfect law. 2. This evening we are examining several "additional principles that relate to conversion." 3. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. GOD'S WORD PRODUCES CONVERSION
A. (Psalm 19:7a) "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." 1. In order for God’s Word to produce conversion, it must be heard in the right way. 2. The right way to hear is explained in James 1:21. B. When we realize that God’s Word produces conversion when it is properly heard, we can understand why some people will not be converted. 1. Isaiah 6:8-10 a. Isaiah was sent to preach to his people, the Jews. b. God told Isaiah that his people would not be converted. c. They would not be converted because: 1) they would not understand, and they would not perceive 2) they would have a problem with their hearts, ears, and eyes. d. Isaiah's mission was to teach God's Word. e. The Jews would have to hear his teaching in the right way to be converted. f. Unfortunately, they would not hear correctly. 2. These words are quoted several times in the New Testament. a. (Matthew 13:14-15) Jesus applied Isaiah's words to those who failed to understand His parables. b. (John 12:37-40) Isaiah's words are applied to the Jews who saw the Lord’s miracles but refused to believe on Him. c. (Acts 28:24-27) Isaiah's words are applied to the people in Rome who did not believe Paul’s teaching. C. God’s Word produces conversion. 1. However, in order for conversion to take place, God's Word must be heard properly. 2. For the next point we need to let the Bible show . . . II. WHY WE MUST BE CONVERTED
A. We must be converted so our "sins may be blotted out" (Acts 3:19; 2:38). 1. Sin is a widespread problem (Romans 3:23). 2. Sin has serious consequences, but a special gift is available (Romans 6:23). B. We must be converted to enter the kingdom (Matthew 18:3; John 3:5). C. We must be converted to be ready for the Lord's return (Acts 3:19b-21). D. Finally, we need to point out that . . . III. CONVERSION AND JOY ARE CLOSELY ASSOCIATED
A. First, God rejoices when a sinner is converted (Luke 15:10). B. Second, sinners who are converted have reason to rejoice (Acts 8:39 - the eunuch "went on his way rejoicing"). C. Third, the conversion of sinners ought to cause Christians to experience great joy (Acts 15:3 – when Paul and Barnabas declared how Gentiles had been converted, "they caused great joy unto all the brethren"). Conclusion:
1. Are you in need of conversion? 2. If you are, take the necessary steps so your life can be right with God.