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Why Are People Converting From Evangelical Christianity to Roman Catholicism?

Q: Good morning Michael,

Looking for your understanding or some clarity on a phenomenon I have experienced lately. I have been in contact with an increasing number of friends and acquaintances who are either returning to Roman Catholicism or some who have been evangelical Christians and have “converted “ to Catholicism. Having grown up in a Catholic home, attended Catholic grade school and high school, was an altar boy and was catechised in the Roman tradition, it’s hard for me to fathom why these people would be drawn back into this system. 

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E answers a question from Jim, who is concerned about friends returning to Roman Catholicism or converting from evangelical backgrounds. Drawing from his own experience growing up Catholic and being catechized in the Roman tradition, Dr. Easley explores the reasons behind this trend. He notes that many evangelical churches have drifted from deep discipleship and expositional preaching, often focusing on feel-good, self-help-style messages rather than rigorous Bible teaching. Seminaries, too, have shortened or watered-down programs, making deep theological formation less accessible. Dr. Easley also highlights the appealing aspects of Catholicism, such as rich liturgy, historical grounding, ornate worship spaces, and a sense of hierarchy and stability, which can feel compelling to those seeking depth or tradition.

However, he carefully addresses theological concerns, emphasizing that Catholic doctrines like indulgences, purgatory, intercessory prayer to saints, and the Council of Trent’s statements on justification conflict with Scripture. He encourages Christians to love and pray for friends who convert while equipping themselves with knowledge and resources. 

Takeaways:

• Many evangelicals convert to Catholicism due to a desire for deeper discipleship and historical rootedness.
• Shortened seminary programs and “drive-by” Bible teaching leave some seeking more theological depth.
• Catholic churches appeal through ornate worship, liturgy, and visible symbols of tradition.
• Doctrines like purgatory, indulgences, and intercessory prayer contradict Scripture.
• Understanding history and Scripture equips Christians to respond thoughtfully to friends who convert.
• Pray for friends and engage in loving conversations while being biblically informed.

Links Mentioned:

Reasoning From The Scriptures with Catholics by Dr. Ron Rhodes

Why Do Protestants Convert? By Chris Castaldo

Chris Castaldo on inContext

10 Most Important Things You Can Say to a Catholic By Dr. Ron Rhodes

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you’ve got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.