The Hope of Conversions in an Increasingly Secular World

The Stampede of Secularism Will Not Stop Conversions

A few weeks ago, I had a fascinating conversation with some pastors in England. We discussed the current state of Christianity in a world that seems to be increasingly secular. One pastor shared his concern that the rapid pace of secularization in Britain might make it difficult for people to see the relevance and truth of Christianity. It is as if the moral implications of following Christ are so foreign to the prevailing culture that conversion seems almost impossible.

This sentiment is not uncommon. Many Christians wonder if the deeply secular individuals, with little or no Christian background, will be able to grasp the profound implications of faith in Christ. Will they dismiss Christianity as mere mythology, akin to the ancient Greek tales of Zeus and Hermes?

However, I want to offer a different perspective rooted in the Bible. I believe that despite the challenges posed by secularism, there are three biblical truths that give us hope for conversions even in the face of an increasingly secular world.

1. God's Unceasing Work in Individuals

One of the most encouraging aspects of the Christian faith is the belief that God is always at work in the hearts and minds of individuals, loosening them from the grip of prevailing cultural beliefs. This is not a new phenomenon; throughout the Bible, we see God engaging with individuals and transforming their lives.

For example, in the Old Testament, we read about the conversion of Saul, who was a zealous persecutor of Christians. Through a divine encounter on the road to Damascus, God radically transformed Saul into the apostle Paul, one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church. This conversion is a powerful demonstration of God's ability to change hearts and minds, even in the most hostile circumstances.

In the New Testament, we also see Jesus engaging with individuals from all walks of life. He reached out to tax collectors, prostitutes, and other social outcasts, showing them God's love and offering them a chance for redemption. These encounters demonstrate that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that conversion is possible for anyone, regardless of their background or current beliefs.

As Christians, we can take comfort in the knowledge that God is actively at work in the lives of individuals, even those who appear to be deeply entrenched in secularism. We must trust in His power to soften hearts and open minds to the truth of the Gospel.

2. The Counter-Cultural Message of the Gospel

One of the reasons people may find it difficult to accept Christianity in a secular world is because the message of the Gospel is inherently counter-cultural. The values and principles of the Kingdom of God often stand in stark contrast to the prevailing beliefs of society.

However, this counter-cultural nature of Christianity should not discourage us. In fact, it should encourage us because it means that the Gospel has the power to challenge and transform the prevailing culture. Throughout history, we have seen how the message of Christ has brought about radical change in societies, challenging unjust systems and transforming hearts.

For example, the early Christians were known for their radical love and care for the poor and marginalized. In a society where the weak were often discarded and forgotten, their actions stood out as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. This same message continues to challenge and inspire individuals today, offering hope and a vision of a better world.

As Christians, we are called to embrace this counter-cultural message and live out its implications in our own lives. By doing so, we become living testimonies to the truth and relevance of Christianity, showing others that there is a different way to live, a way that brings true fulfillment and purpose.

3. The Holy Spirit's Convicting Power

Another reason why we can have hope for conversions in a secular world is the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the process of conversion, convicting individuals of their need for a Savior and drawing them into a relationship with Christ.

In John 16:8, Jesus says, "And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment." This verse reminds us that it is the Holy Spirit who opens our eyes to the truth of the Gospel and enables us to recognize our need for salvation.

Throughout history, we see the Holy Spirit at work in the lives of individuals, breaking through the barriers of skepticism and unbelief. He empowers preachers and evangelists to proclaim the Gospel with boldness and clarity, and He softens the hearts of those who hear the message.

As Christians, we can have confidence in the Holy Spirit's power to bring about conversions, even in the face of secularism. We must rely on His leading and guidance as we share the Gospel with others, trusting that He will work in their hearts and minds to bring them to faith in Christ.

Conclusion

In a world that seems to be increasingly secular, it is easy to feel discouraged and wonder if conversions are still possible. However, as Christians, we can take comfort in the knowledge that God is always at work in the lives of individuals, loosening them from the grip of secularism. We can embrace the counter-cultural message of the Gospel, knowing that it has the power to challenge and transform the prevailing culture. And we can rely on the Holy Spirit's convicting power to bring about conversions, even in the most unlikely circumstances.

So let us not lose hope. Let us continue to share the truth and relevance of Christianity, knowing that God is still in the business of bringing about conversions in the most unexpected ways. And let us trust in His power to transform hearts and minds, both now and in the future.