The purpose-driven movement makes conversion a simple matter of saying the magic words, a mantra that makes Jesus the Mister Rogers of the conscience. In his popular book, The Purpose Driven Life,2 author Rick Warren represents conversion in these words: “Jesus, I believe in you and I receive you” (p. 59). There is a pit of false hope in placing our faith in our words rather than in God’s compassion to receive sinners to himself. Warren falsely (and dangerously) assures us of our salvation. He writes: “If you sincerely meant that prayer, congratulations! Welcome to the family of God!” (p. 59).
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