Factors Influencing Conversion of Cambodian Muslims to Christianity
Keywords:
Religious Conversion, Evangelism, Muslim, IslamAbstract
Religious conversion can have a profound affect in one’s life. It is not easily studied, however. While previous research has yielded many insights, further research is needed. Doctoral research was conducted in Cambodia in 2017 regarding individuals from a Muslim background who have decided to believe in and follow Jesus. One research question focused on factors identified by Cambodians as contributing to their decision to follow Jesus. This paper reviews findings on that topic. Four primary factors affecting conversion are presented, (Sin and Cleansing, Heaven and Judgment, Jesus, and the Bible). Four additional secondary factors are identified, (Witness of Others, Dreams, Love, A Sense of God’s Leading). Conversion to Christianity commonly follows evangelism of some type. Connections between evangelism and conversion factors are explored in this paper, and implications for further evangelism are identified. This study adds insights to the body of research regarding how people from Muslim backgrounds are choosing to believe in and follow Jesus.
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