CONVERSION.
- Definition of Conversion.
Conversion may be defined as the act by which we turn from sin to the Lord Jesus for forgiveness of sins. The word translated conversion means “to turn” to make a complete turn-about.
This turn-about involves more than a simple change of mind, attitude or morals. It involves every part of a persons being, his desire, life-style, will, spirit and outlook on life.
In the act of conversion the sinner has to “Cross over from death to life” (Jn. 5:24). For example, here is a drunkard who gambles and lives a notorious life. After hearing the Word of God on salvation, he repents, confesses and forsake his sins. He is no longer gambles and gets drunk or goes to places of sin. He now hates the things he once loved and he loves the things he once hated, and those who know him say he’s converted, he’s a different man.
- The Difference between Repentance and Conversion.
Acts 3:19, to help us understand the difference between repentance and conversion, let me use this story to illustrate what both of them are.
There was a young lady who boarded a bus when she was returning from market. She earlier told the conductor that she stop at the second bus stop.
As the driver was speeding, they eventually passed the bus stop, reaching to the third bus stop. She acknowledged that she had missed her destination and became very sorry and ask the driver to stop and she came down from the bus. Repentance: she turns back; conversion heading towards the right place she would have to stop.
The above illustration shows the difference between repentance and conversion. Hence, genuine repentance will keep you from sinning; conversion helps you to leave completely your former sinful way of life and start to live out the new life God has through the Holy Spirit (2cor. 5:17. 1Thess. 1:9).
Examples of Conversion in the Bible.
Lydia. (Acts.16:13-15)
The Philippians Jailer. (Acts. 16:16-34)
Paul the Apostle. (Acts 9:1-31)
- The Means of Conversion.
The instrument God uses to bring about conversion is the preaching of the Gospel. The Holy Spirit uses the Word to convict us of sin and to produce faith (Rom. 10:17). We thus repent, believe in the Lord Jesus and are converted.
- The Purpose of Conversion.
The purpose of conversion is two-fold.
a. It is to turn away from our evil ways, sin and eternal death (Ezk. 33:11, Matt. 7:13);
b. It turns us to the narrow way that leads to eternal life (Matt. 7:14).
In conversion we take the first step on the road to eternal life.
The Results of Conversion.
Salvation from spiritual death (James. 5:20).
At the time of conversion we become part of God’s family (1 John. 3:2).
Our sins are wiped out and a new lease of life will be sent to us from God (Acts 3:19; Ps. 103:12; Isaiah 43:25).
It affords us the opportunity to have unhindered fellowship with the Lord.