Episode 39 - Conversion
Following the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, Jake and Brett discuss the importance and centrality of personal conversion in Christianity and in our own lives.
Guiding Quote
“Conversion means accepting, by a personal decision, the saving sovereignty of Christ and becoming His disciple.” (St John Paul II, The Church in America, 1999)
Key Points
There is an ongoing need for us to continually grow into the man we were made to be
We can too often live in smaller stories and adventures as a way to avoid and control
Conversion is one of the core tenets of the Gospel
If we aren’t changing our lives and becoming Jesus’ disciples, we cannot call what we are doing Christianity, we could call it self-help
If we don’t acknowledge and come to terms with sin, then we have not encountered our desperate need for a saviour
Men often struggle with admitting their weakness and need
We have been created to be utterly dependency on the love and grace of God
Metanoia means to change your thoughts and mind about life
Discipleship is trusting that Jesus was right about everything and is worth following
Believing ourselves to be without need of help and saving is a dangerous way to live life
One of the key ways we need to change our mind and heart is realizing our utter dependence on grace and mercy
"There are water and tears: the waters of Baptism and the tears of repentance" (St. Ambrose)
St. Paul had a false idea of who Jesus was
Conversion is an ongoing encounter with the real Jesus
St. Paul took time away being a disciple before he preached the Gospel
Apprentice is a good synonym for disciple
Conversion encountering a person with a face and a name, Jesus
Discussion Questions
What struck you from this episode?
What are some of the “conversion” moments you have experienced in your life?
Being as honest as you can, how are you when you are left totally up to your own capacity?
What are some areas that you could benefit from metanoia (change your mind/thoughts)?
What are some of the false ideas or impressions of Jesus you struggle with?
What stands out to you about St. Paul’s conversion?
Resources
