Jesus said, "Unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3; NKJV). Conversion has to do with change. It involves a turning from something and a turning to something. There are three basic changes involved in conversion to Christ.
One's Heart. Conversion involves changing one's mind about one's self, GOD, sin, and state. Conversion recognizes one's need for GOD, one's need to repent of sin, and one's state of separation from the One who has been sinned against. The prodigal son got it right: "Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight..." (Luke 15:21; NKJV).
One's Action. Many change their mind about themselves, GOD, and their sin, but never change their action. Maybe they stop a sin because of the negative consequences only to begin participating in a different sin. Conversion to Christ involves a turning from sin and a turning to GOD. The Thessalonians got it right:"...and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God..." (1 Thessalonians 1:9; NKJV).
One's Relationship. Some change their mind and their behavior, but never have a relationship with GOD. Conversion to Christ involves changing one's mind about Jesus, conforming one's thinking, speech, and behavior to His, and beginning a relationship with Him. Throughout the New Testament those in relationship with Jesus are spoken of as being "in Christ." The Galatians got it right: "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Galatians 3:27; NKJV).
"Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord..." (Acts 3:19; NKJV)
Jason Cicero
