Counting Conversions, pt. 2

Often times the measure of success for a church or ministry is based on the number of decisions or how many people are involved in ministry. Luke recorded some growth numbers in the book of Acts (2:41; 5:14; 11:24). It isn't wrong to measure success mathematically, but how we define "decisions" can be misleading. Some count the number of hands raised while heads are bowed. Others teach that all you need to do is to pray a simple life-changing prayer. Honestly, I think these sort of things lead people to think that we can save ourselves by making a "decision." And let's not forget to point the finger at ourselves. How many have been baptized thinking that was it, and yet their life doesn't come close to resembling a disciple of Christ. Ouch!

George Whitefield, who was a leader in the 18th century Great Awakening, said "There are so many stony ground hearers, who receive the Word with joy, that I have determined to suspend my judgment till I know the tree by its fruits. I cannot believe they are converts till I see fruit brought back; it will never do a sincere soul any harm."

A century later, Charles Spurgeon said "Do not, therefore, consider that soul-winning is or can be secured by the multiplication of baptisms, and the swelling of the size of your church… Lay aside such numberings of the people, such idle pretence of certifying in half a minute that which will need the testing of a lifetime."

These two preachers of the past reflected the teachings of Jesus who said "All men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35).

Do the seeds of the Gospel still fall on rocky, hard-pan soil, or among thorns? Certainly. So how do we know the composition of a person's conversion soil? FRUIT. True conversion is the supernatural work of God bringing about a changed heart (good soil), which naturally leads to a change in our behavior. Changed behavior (from ours to Christ's) bears good fruit. This is good soil conversion – and from good soil comes good fruit.

Have you made a decision for Christ? If so, praise God, but we will know that you are a truly a Christian (a follower of Christ) by your love (fruit).