This was first written for LRBC for 22 June 2025
Conversion to Christianity is one of the most profound life-changes that someone can have. It is one of those dates in life often remembered like that of a birth, a marriage, or a death. For those who were raised in Christian families and who can’t discern a particular “conversion experience”, their commitment to Christ is still one of the most significant factors that shapes who they are. Given how tremendous a change it is, we should give further thought to what it entails. That way we can better explain what it means to become a Christian, and better help others in their faith formation.
One way that has traditionally (and biblically) explained it is through a trio of imperatives: Believe the gospel, repent of sin, and follow Jesus. This must be included in any right understanding of the commitment to Christian faith. I have wondered about other facets of conversion to Christianity and think these are worth recognising too.
- We Adopt a New Identity. Christians are known by their identification with Christ: it’s in the name! Whatever else defines who we are, by taking on this name we have aligned ourselves with Jesus. This might be awkward for people who have not previously been religious, or it might come with accusations of disloyalty for those who have forsaken a different religious or ideological identity. Challenges like this are helped by broadening and deepening our appreciation of who we are in Christ (such as is given by the helpful short book Identity Theft… read about it HERE). Spending time with others who have committed their identity to Christ helps too—this is why Christian community is so important.
- We Join a New Community. Christianity is not a solo journey. If we love Jesus, we should love others who love him. If we belong to Jesus, we also belong to his people too. Joining a new group of people can be daunting, so it is important to help others to fit in, and to make our common identity in Christ a strong point of what brings any given church community together. Community comes with challenges, including Christians who differ from each other. One of the strongest motivators that overcome these differences is our unity in common purpose.
- We Turn to a New Purpose. Jesus has not redeemed people so that they can carry on doing life for themselves. Conversion brings with it a change of focus. True spiritual life brings with it an enamourment with God and an interest in furthering his interests. We wish to see his Name hallowed and his kingdom come. Whatever else makes us get out of bed in the morning, our life’s orientation is turned Godward. This can express itself in care for others, spiritually, socially, and physically. Part of the summons to Christian faith is a call to live life for Jesus, and so discipleship efforts must help people do this.
These facets of conversion are worth giving thought to. Christ calls us to a new identity, a new community, and a new purpose. All of these can be quite challenging changes, so helping inquirers see this and helping each other grow into this is an important part of what we can do as a church community.