One of the most influential theologians of the later 20th and early 21st centuries is Jürgen Moltmann. We could discuss his important books like Theology of Hope and The Crucified God, but I want to talk about his conversion to Christianity. Moltmann’s family were nominally Christian. They went to church at Christmas time and sent Jürgen to confirmation classes, but it was just something cultured people did.

In July 1944 Moltmann was drafted into the German army. He experienced the full horror of the war until he surrendered to the British army on February 15, 1945. He spent over three years as a prisoner of war.

His conversion took place as a P.O.W.  He describes it this way “I have never decided for Christ once and for all, as is often demanded of us. . . . But right down to the present day, after almost 60 years, I am certain that then, in 1945, and there, in the Scottish prisoner of war camp, in the dark pit of my soul, Jesus sought me and found me.”

What seemed to have aided Moltmann’s transformation was the kindness of the Scottish people he came in contact with and the gift of a Bible in which he read Psalm 39 and Jesus’ words from the cross, “my God, why have you forsaken me.” In short order he was reading religious books, attending lectures and, in 1947, decided to become a pastor.

I am fascinated by conversion stories. There appears to be as many different ways of coming to Christ as there are people. How did you come to know Jesus?

Read John 17:1-3 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne