Friday; October 23

According to those who worked with him, the convicted serial killer Jeffery Dahmer, repented of his heinous ways and became a Christian later in life. If you aren’t familiar with Dahmer’s crimes, let’s just say that from 1978 to 1991 he was one of the worst of the worst. In 1992 he was sentenced to fifteen life sentences; but something happened to change his focus and, after studying with a local minister, he was baptized and reborn into a new life in 1994. Interestingly, it was that same year that he was killed in prison by another inmate.

There is always some question of sincerity whenever you discuss prison conversions, but my job is to report the story not judge a man’s conviction. So, for a minute, let’s accept it on its face value. If this is true, if the message of Christianity is enough to penetrate and change the heart of a “monster” like Jeffery Dahmer, what can it do to everyone else? It may be odd, but when I think about Jeffery Dahmer, I am drawn to the story of the Apostle Paul. One day he is persecuting Christians – participating in the stoning of Steven and carrying arrest warrants for believers to Damascus – then, a matter a few days later, he is preaching the saving message of Jesus Christ! When we consider Paul’s transformation, it helps us understand his proclamation, “It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.” (I Timothy 1:15).
Are you looking to change your life, but wonder if God will accept a “new” you? Think about people like Paul and Jeffery Dahmer, then read Paul’s statement, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes …” (Romans 1:16). Remember, God’s good news is more powerful than anyone’s past.
Think About It!

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