I was honored to participate in a gospel meeting
preaching on the theme of "What Must I Do To Be Saved?Lessons
in Conversion from the Book of Acts" on the topic of the
conversion of the treasurer of Ethiopia. The first book I pulled
from my shelf in preparation for this sermon was Conversions
in Acts. The book is very concise at just over 100 pages,
but the lessons are weightier when compared to some other books
of much longer length.
Some oppose offering the Lord's invitation at
the conclusion of a sermon. I had a discussion with a friend of
this persuasion. As we discussed this, I learned that the resistance
was not to inviting a response to the gospel but the review of
the gospel plan of salvation that was the issue. Inviting people
to obey the gospel without telling them what to do is like telling
them to take medicine without directions. In my opinion, any preacher
who refuses to explain the gospel plan of salvation at the end
of a lesson is in "dereliction of duty." Likewise, church
leaders who would forbid the proclamation of the plan of salvation
should be rebuked. I cannot fathom why some attack the instruction
on the steps needed to obey the gospel, other than being ashamed
of the gospel.
Conversions in Acts examines several incidents
of conversions in Acts. Of course, not all of the six steps to
salvation are necessarily listed as hear, believe, repent, confess,
be baptized and live faithfully. However, one can readily see
this pattern throughout these acts of conversion. Why is it important
to study these acts of conversions? The only way to become what
they became is to do what they did! We cannot become New Testament
Christians unless we follow the commands, examples, and implications
in the New Testament. This book also contains chapters dealing
with miracles, Holy Spirit baptism, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
All are well written and readily adaptable to sermons that should
be preached.
Brother Overton is the founder and was the sole
editor of The World Evangelist from 1972 until 2004over
32 years of articles designed to take the gospel to the world.
His work as editor has had a very positive influence among the
brotherhood. He is also retired Vice President and Bible Professor
from Heritage Christian University (formerly International Bible
College). He has been a gospel preacher since 1945.
Indeed one of the greatest questions, "What
must I do to be saved?" is one to be studied and preached.
This book will assist in teaching and preparing others to share
the gospel plan of salvation. -29 Flora Drive, Bedford, OH 44146-2011.
DRKenney@email.com For previous book reviews, visit www.streetsborochurch.org