Conversion theology centers on the transformative experience of turning from sin to faith in Jesus Christ, a theme richly woven throughout Scripture. In John 3:3, Jesus emphasizes the necessity of being 'born again' to enter the Kingdom of God, highlighting the radical change that occurs in a believer's life. This transformation is not merely a change of behavior but a profound spiritual rebirth, as articulated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where Paul declares that 'if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come.' The process of conversion involves repentance, as seen in Acts 3:19, which calls believers to 'repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.' Furthermore, Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that this conversion is by grace through faith, underscoring that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of our own works. As believers reflect on their conversion, they are encouraged to share their testimonies, contributing to the growth of the Church, as discussed in the sermon 'Adding to the Church: During the Early American Period.' Ultimately, conversion theology invites individuals into a life of ongoing transformation and obedience to Christ, as they seek to live out their faith in a world that desperately needs the hope of the Gospel.
Richard J. Bauckham delves into the early American period, focusing on the New England colonies from 1630 to 1660. The New England churches pioneered a congregational church polity in a tolerant environment, unlike the Anabaptist and Separatist congregations in the Old World. They faced challenges i