The Anatomy of Spiritual Conversion

A Scriptural Guide

Conversion is a goal for many in the world. People who produce content on YouTube want to convert casual viewers into subscribers. People with retail stores aim to convert shoppers into buyers and then buyers into regular customers. Online marketplace owners want to turn website visitors into purchasers. Some want to turn acquaintances into friends or move a courtship relationship into a spousal one. What do all these conversions have in common? A specific point in time marks each conversion, along with a distinct chain of events facilitating it. For Christians, the desire should be to convert souls from sinful to saved. Scripture addresses this topic, although worldly views often cloud people's judgment. Let's examine when the conversion of a soul occurs according to the Bible.

The Driving Force of Conversion

The Psalmist states, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple (Psalm 19:7)." It's simple. The law of the Lord is the driving force of conversion. Without it, various teachings would mislead us as we try to fill the void in our lives. The Word of God, often called the seed, is the medium by which the gospel reaches us (1 Peter 1:23, 25; Luke 8:11). It's God's power for salvation (Romans 1:16). Without such power, we'd remain enslaved to darkness, unable to enter His kingdom (Colossians 1:13).

The Deciding Factor of Conversion

The Thessalonians were called by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14), indicating that we are all similarly called. Jesus taught that one must be taught by God to enter His kingdom (John 6:44-45). Receiving the Word must be done with gladness, readiness of mind, despite afflictions, recognizing it as God's Word, and with meekness (Acts 2:41; 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 2:13; James 1:21). Without the driving force of the Word, no amount of human effort can trigger conversion.

The Distinct Form of Conversion

Conversion has a specific form: baptism. Just as a monetary transaction signals conversion from shopper to buyer, baptism marks the conversion from sinner to saint. Luke writes, "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19)." Repentance involves a change of mind, while baptism actualizes the conversion by remitting sins (Acts 2:38). Therefore, repentance, turning to God, and remission of sins happen at baptism (Acts 26:20). It is through baptism that one becomes a servant of righteousness (Romans 6:17-18).

Conclusion

After understanding conversion process, how can anyone remain unconverted? If already converted, how can one not share this divine operation? May we all be diligent in fulfilling the Great Commission, spreading the gospel far and wide.