One Helpful Theory for Explaining Religious Conversion

Abstract

The author finds the theory of religion developed by Stark and Bainbridge useful in understanding his own faith journey, findings from four research projects in the Muslim world he has conducted, and findings from other research that contributes to Christian’s knowledge of spreading the gospel. This article focuses on how the theory employs three theoretical spheres: the social and cultural context surrounding the presentation of the gospel, the gospel as understood by the recipients, and what is meant by conversion.