Dictionary of Bible Themes: 6627 conversion, nature of

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6627 conversion, nature of

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 6000 Sin and salvation » 6600 Aspects of salvation » 6626 conversion » 6627 conversion, nature of

True repentance results in a turning from sin and an inner renewal which can only be brought about by God, who draws people to himself and who, through Jesus Christ, gives forgiveness and new life.

Conversion as turning to God

Turning back to God

Deuteronomy 4:30-31; Luke 1:16-17 See also Deuteronomy 30:2-3,10; Luke 22:32; James 5:19-20

Turning from idolatry

Turning from sinful ways

2 Kings 17:13-14; Isaiah 55:6-7 See also 2 Kings 13:11; Kings 14:24; Kings 15:9; Jeremiah 18:11; Jeremiah 25:5; Ezekiel 18:23; Daniel 9:13

Conversion as a turning away from unbelief to faith

It is linked to repentance

It is linked to coming to faith

Acts 11:21

Conversion brings new life

It results in a transformed life

2 Corinthians 5:17 See also Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 6:14-15

It is symbolised in baptism

Romans 6:3-4 See also Colossians 2:12; Colossians 3:1-3

It demands a new lifestyle

Hosea 12:6; Matthew 18:3-4 See also Galatians 5:22-24; Ephesians 4:1; Ephesians 5:8-11; 1 Peter 2:11-12

Conversion brings a new relationship with God

It brings a new status

Galatians 4:7 See also Galatians 3:26-29; 1 John 3:1; 1 Peter 2:9-10

It brings a new understanding

2 Corinthians 3:15-16 See also Jeremiah 31:34; Hebrews 8:11

Conversion is a work of God

God turns people to himself

Jeremiah 24:7; Lamentations 5:21 See also 1 Kings 8:58; Jeremiah 31:18; Ezekiel 36:26-27; John 6:44; John 15:16; Ephesians 2:12-13

God gives new birth

James 1:17-18 See also John 3:3-6; Titus 3:4-5; 1 Peter 1:23