Have You Been Converted?

[ ] 12/14/2008 #804

HAVE YOU BEEN CONVERTED?

Acts 26:13-19

INTRODUCTION: Paul witnessed to King Agrippa about his personal conversion in hopes that the king would be saved. Sinners must be saved (converted) before they can become citizens of heaven.

I. CONDITION OF THE SINNER

A. BLINDED BY SATAN. (2 Cor. 4:3-4)

“But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.”

B. BONDAGE TO SATAN.

“. . . according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” (Eph. 2:2)

II. CONVERSION OF THE SINNER

A. CONVERSION EXPLAINED. “turn them from darkness to light”

Paul gave us a word picture about the meaning of conversion in verse 18. It means to turn. Repentance and faith are essential in conversion. Repentance is turning from sin and faith is turning to God. The words “new birth” and “regeneration” also explain conversion. The conversion experience may differ with various individuals, but the results of conversion are a changed attitude and a changed life.

“Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3-4)

“Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.” Mark 10:15

B. CONVERSION EXAMPLES.

1. Ethiopian eunuch. (Acts 8:26-39)

2. Lydia of Thyatira. (Acts 16:14-15)

3. Philippian Jailer. (Acts 16:27-34)

4. Saul or Paul of Tarsus. (Acts 9:1-22)

III. CONFIRMATION TO THE SAVED

A. FORGIVENSS OF SIN. “that they may receive forgiveness of sins”

B. FUTURE SECURED.

1. Inheritance. “To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Pet. 1:4-5)

2. Sanctified. (set apart unto God)

“For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.” (Heb. 10:14)

LESSONS FOR LIFE:

1. Lost people are blinded and are in bondage to Satan. Salvation from sin and deliverance from Satan can only be accomplished through the power of God. How fervently have you been praying for your lost loved ones?

2. Genuine salvation brings changes to a sinner’s life. Has there been a change in your attitude and behavior?

3. Jesus made it clear that those who are saved have faith in Him. Have you placed your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord?