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Conversion (Giving Ones Life to God, Born Again)
Meaning
Conversion is part of the saving work of God in a person’s life. The word itself means to turn away from something and toward something else. And in this context conversion means to turn away from the world and self and turn toward God. Conversion involves repentance, however, repentance alone does not bring about conversion. Conversion means to understand who God is, who Jesus is and what sin has done to our relationship with God. This understanding, then brings about repentance. And if repentance is then followed by acceptance of Christ, and placing one’s faith in Jesus alone, then conversion takes place. Conversion can occur as the Holy Spirit changes the hearts of those who were once lost.
The Bible tells us that all people are dead in their trespasses and sins and unable to acknowledge or turn toward God. And that it’s the work of the Holy Spirit who changes the hearts of people, in order that they can understand and accept God’s mercy and grace. It’s only then that salvation can be found through faith in Christ. Conversion is also the same as being “born again.” This was a popular term during the 1970’s and 1980’s and it means to die to self and the world and to be reborn as a dedicated follower of Jesus.
“Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.” (Book of Isaiah 55:7)
“Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.'” (Gospel of Matthew 18:2-3)
“Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.'” (Gospel of John 3:3)