#65 Quiet Conversion

Introduction

Oftentimes the stereotype of a conversion story is that of an emotional roller coaster. Where someone comes to Christ after a long emotional journey. When they finally ‘surrender’ it is accompanied by tears, emotions, and a general reevaluation of all previously held beliefs. In the Bible this type of conversion is seen in John 4. Which is the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. Jesus shared the gospel with her and in turn she ran and told the whole town about Jesus. There is also another type of conversion. That which is found in Acts 8:26-39, Acts 16:25-34, Luke 23:39-43, and Matthew 9:9. Or in stories like that of Dwight L. Moody. Who was converted while in a department store where he worked. Quiet conversion is generally that of someone who is living life and when confronted by the truth of Christ turns aside from their old ways simply and immediately with little fuss. They are accustomed to doing what is right, or what they believe is right. So when they learn of Christ they simply start living according to this truth. 

Examples

In Acts 8:26-39 there is the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch. He searched for the truth and when he encountered Philip and learned of Christ he believed. He then went on to say  “Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36) Once baptized Philip disappeared by the Holy Spirit and the Ethiopian Eunuch continued on his way. In this example the conversion is characterized by a willingness to learn, a recognition of the truth, and a desire for immediate action. 

Next in Acts 16:25-34, there is the story of the prison guard who was prepared to take his own life yet when Paul and Silas came back to him he was ready to give his life to Christ. He said, “what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30) In this example the prison guard’s conversion is characterized by his readiness to act, and his follow through on Paul’s advice. 

Then in Luke 23:39-43, we meet the man who was on a cross next to Jesus. He recognized Christ’s innocence and His divinity. He said, “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!” (Luke 23:42). His conversion was a logical conclusion to his recognition of Christ’s divinity. Once he realized the truth he acted accordingly. 

Finally in Matthew 9:9, Jesus calls on Matthew to follow him. Jesus said follow me and so Matthew became a follower of Christ. Matthew heard the call and acted. There are many details left out of this yet the fact is hearing the call he responded immediately. 

Conclusion 

When you compare all of these stories you get an idea of what a quiet conversion is. It is a conversion where someone learns the truth of Christ and responds immediately. These stories are not emotional, they are rather simply factual. Marked by logic and a bias towards action. These men show us that true conversion comes in many forms.