How to Convert From Buddhism to Christianity

Replace your Buddhist beliefs and practices with Christian equivalents.

Converting from one religion to another can involve changing the way you live, think and act. While that might sound daunting, it's important to accept that converting to a new a religion should not be taken lightly and will take some time to adjust to. Whatever your reason for converting from Buddhism to Christianity, rest assured that many of the practices of Buddhist -- such as selflessness and humility -- and the strength of mind needed to practice Buddhism can be carried with you to your new life in Christ.

Things You'll Need

• Bible

Instructions

1. Repent. Make a commitment to change the way you live so that you live in accordance with Christ's ideals and commandments. This means being a peacemaker, caring for others and being humble. Being merciful, serving others and showing others the way to salvation in Christ are all part of your new faith.

2. Become baptized. Visit a local church to arrange a baptism with a priest or pastor. You will either be submerged in or sprinkled with water to symbolize the death of your old self and the washing away of your sins. After baptism, you will be dedicated to living for Christ.

3. Change your mindset. As a Buddhist, you believed that the soul is temporary and that reality is illusory. As a Christian, you will believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that you must live as Christ lived and taught.

4. Replace your Buddhist practices with Christian practices. If you practiced meditation or chanting, spend this time in prayer and communion with Christ. Instead of reading Buddhist texts and sutras, read the Bible and other Christian works.

5. Follow the Ten Commandments instead of the Buddhist precepts. The precepts include not killing, stealing or speaking harmfully. These practice should be continued, but expanded upon under the context of the Ten Commandments.

6. Learn and grow as a Christian through Bible reading, attending church and discussing Christ with other Christians. These practices can be important in helping you understand how to live as Christ lived and taught. Stop attending Buddhist sangha (church) or supporting Buddhist groups.

7. Replace Buddhist artwork, sutras and books in your house with Christian equivalents. Acquire a Bible and other Christian books, a crucifix and any other Christian symbols and art.

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your friends and family that you have converted to Christianity. Be prepared, as some people may not immediately accept your conversion.

• Converting to a new religion is a serious matter and should not be undertaken lightly. Don't accept beliefs or ideals that you don't truly believe in.

References

• Northwestern University: World Religions: Buddhism
• Freedom in Christ; How to Convert to Christianity?; Robert Sherman; 2006
• The Big View: The Precepts