Conversion

In the world, the word conversion seems to connote a negative meaning. Like in the case of conversion therapy, which attempts to cure people of homosexuality. Our culture sees this as abusive and inhumane. In addition, the word conversion, in a religious context, is seen as wrong and intolerant. So the word gets a bad rap from the secular world, but when looking at what the Bible says, it is a very important word related to salvation.

In the Old Testament there is one Hebrew word translated “converted” and it means “to turn back” or “return.” Psalms 19:7, The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul. Psalms 51:13, Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You. These two passages show how the word speaks about a sinner coming to salvation in turning to God. In the New Testament, there are a few Greek words that mean basically the same as the Old Testament word. Matthew 18:3, Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Acts 3:19, 19 Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. These passages are speaking of unbelievers who are to turn from their sins and change their hearts to believe in Christ. There must be a turnabout in mind, belief in God and a change in lifestyle. Jesus said unless this happens you cannot go to heaven.

The doctrine of conversion is the change that comes about as someone turns from sin and trusts in Christ alone for their salvation. This turning is not the sinner doing it themselves, it is by grace that we are saved (Ephesians 2:8-9). It cannot be passed off as a mere psychological phenomenon, it is God Who restore us (Jeremiah 31:18). To be converted, a person must know and believe the Gospel, which is the account of the death of Christ for our sins, His burial and resurrection from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Only Jesus could provide salvation, therefore only Jesus can convert a person to salvation (Matthew 11:27). A clear description of conversion is found in the mouth of the Apostle Paul: To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in me (Acts 26:18).

Conversion in popular Christian usage refers to a person who is born again and begins a new life in Christ. It is the act of believing in Christ and becoming a new creation. The old sinful lifestyle disappears and a new godly lifestyle emerges. Evil deeds and false worship give way to serving Christ and true worship. Unbelievers are converted to Christ and thus they do a 180 degree change in their life. The word can be synonymous with salvation. As followers of Christ, we ought to use this terminology when speaking with unbelievers in asking them to covert to Christ. A statement such as, “will you convert to Christ” is a powerful way to cut them to the heart, knowing the Holy Spirit can open their heart to the truth.