Dr. Timothy Keller discusses the radical change of conversion in early Christianity and its impact on society. He explores the story of the Ethiopian eunuch's conversion, highlighting the key elements of who converts, the context, and the instrument of conversion. The sermon emphasizes the necessity of belief and the transformative power of the gospel in life.
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Quick takeaways
Conversion is a result of divine work, not human efforts.
True conversion leads to sociological and relational transformations rooted in Jesus' sacrificial love.
Deep dives
The Agent of Conversion: The Spirit of God's Work
In Acts 8, we see divine intervention guiding Philip to meet the Ethiopian eunuch, a powerful and educated man seeking spiritual answers. Through detailed instructions from the Spirit, Philip engages the eunuch in a conversation about Isaiah's prophecy. The Spirit orchestrates this encounter, highlighting that conversion is a result of divine work and not human efforts.
Community as the Context of Conversion
The Ethiopian's vulnerability and openness to receiving help from Philip reveal the importance of community in conversion. Despite his powerful position, he seeks understanding and willingly engages in dialogue. His willingness to welcome Philip into his chariot signifies a shift towards communal involvement in his spiritual journey.
The Key Instrument of Conversion: Substitutionary Sacrifice of Jesus Christ
Upon encountering Isaiah 53's prophecy of a sacrificial figure, the eunuch questions Philip about the passage's meaning. Philip reveals that Jesus Christ's substitutionary sacrifice offers forgiveness and salvation. Understanding this truth leads to a fundamental change in identity, shifting focus from self-justification to experiencing God's grace.
Signs of True Conversion: Sociological Change and Embracing Community
The eunuch's willingness to embrace Philip as a brother after grasping the gospel's message signifies a transformed outlook. True conversion manifests in sociological changes, such as breaking down racial barriers and fostering genuine community. Conversion, fueled by the gospel, prompts psychological and relational transformations rooted in the reality of Jesus' sacrificial love.
Conversion is a radical change of life. And in its early days, Christianity grew through conversions. It spread so rapidly that it changed a hostile society completely.
What does it mean to become a Christian? By looking at the conversions in Acts, we can see what Christianity really is.
In this passage, the conversion of an Ethiopian, we learn three things: 1) who converts, 2) the context of conversion, and 3) the key instrument conversion uses.
This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on November 16, 2003. Series: The Necessity of Belief. Scripture: Acts 8:26-40.
Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.
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