Converted to Christ

Introduction:

During November, we have been talking about some of the fundamentals of salvation. Talk today about the heart of Christianity – conversion to Jesus Christ. We will do this by taking an in-depth look at Luke 7:36-50.

I.  A detailed look at Luke 7:36-50.

A.    7:36 – curious Pharisee named Simon invites Jesus to dinner with him & others.

B.    7:37 – immoral woman, a prostitute, came in uninvited & unwelcome.

1.     7:37b – it would have, though, been an act of courage for this woman, a sinner, to enter the house of a Pharisee.

C.     7:38 – totally, absolutely unacceptable as public behavior.

D.    7:39 – Simon’s reaction.

E.     7:40 – Jesus knew what Simon was thinking.

II. Why was she crying?

A.    She knew what she had been.

1.     Jewish law was clear as to what she deserved – death – Deut. 22:20-21.

2.     She knew why she had been tolerated & that she was worth nothing.

B.    Imagine the state of her mind, heart, and self image.

1.     Here is Jesus – He cared!

III. Luke 7:48 – Your Sins are Forgiven.

A.    What wonderful words! She could be forgiven! Even after the life she lived!

B.    Have you ever been honored in such a way that you have been deeply moved?

1.     No honor any person can ever receive in this life will begin to equal the honor of Jesus saying “your sins are forgiven.”

a)    May we understand that honor before we die!

b)    The very moment we die, the early honor stays right here!

c)     Only love & forgiveness travels with us through death.

IV. We must be committed to conversion.

A.    Conversion to Jesus is the heart, soul, and core of Christianity!  See Mt. 18:3-4.

1.     The heart of Christianity is found only by seeking & accepting forgiveness.

2.     Christianity is all about needing and seeking forgiveness.

3.     Christianity all about finding forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

B.    As I find that forgiveness, I can be converted into a person like Jesus.

1.     Christians live lives full of gratitude and peace!

2.     Col. 3:15; Phil. 4:4-7

3.     Christianity is about the life that comes because forgiveness is given.

Conclusion:

A.    We live in a skeptical, cynical, and deeply distrustful society.

B.    Our genuine conversion to Christ creates opportunities to share Jesus.

C.     Luke 15:1 (The Message) – Jesus dined with people of doubtful reputation.

1.     They knew who they were. They knew what they deserved.

2.     Why did they come? Why did they listen? They knew Jesus cared.

D.    Have you ever realized who you are?  What you deserve? Jesus cares.