1. The Story of the Samaritan Woman: In John 4, Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman drawing water from a well. Samaritans were considered pagans by the Jews because they worshipped on a different mountain than the Jews. However, Jesus engages in a conversation with her and ultimately reveals to her that He is the Messiah.
2. The Conversion of Cornelius: In Acts 10, a Roman centurion named Cornelius is visited by an angel who instructs him to send for Peter. Cornelius worshipped the Roman gods but he was a devout man who prayed regularly. Peter comes to Cornelius’ house and shares the gospel with him and his entire household. They are all baptized and become followers of Jesus.
3. The Riot in Ephesus: In Acts 19, the Apostle Paul comes to the city of Ephesus and begins preaching about Jesus. Many people turn away from their pagan practices and begin following Jesus. This angers the silversmiths who make silver idols of the goddess Artemis. They initiate a riot against Paul and his companions, but they are ultimately protected by the city officials.
4. The Story of King Nebuchadnezzar: In Daniel 4, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has a dream where he sees a tree that is cut down. Daniel interprets the dream and warns the king that he will be humbled if he does not turn away from his pagan ways. Nebuchadnezzar ignores the warning and becomes insane, living as a wild animal in the wilderness until he acknowledges the sovereignty of God.
