Understanding True Conversion: Repentance and Faith

 

Summary

In our exploration of the work of the Holy Spirit in the application of redemption, we reach a pivotal point where we transition from the unconscious workings of the Spirit to the conscious manifestations of conversion. Conversion is the first exercise of the new nature, a turning from old ways to a new life in Christ. It is essential for every believer, as no one is born a Christian; we all must undergo this transformation. Conversion involves both divine and human activity: the Holy Spirit's effectual call and our response to it.

We must be cautious of temporary and counterfeit conversions, which can mislead individuals into believing they have experienced true conversion when they have not. Temporary conversions may arise from a misunderstanding of the truth, while counterfeit conversions can result from influences other than the truth. It is crucial to discern the essential elements of true conversion, which are repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. These elements are consistent throughout Scripture and have been evident in all genuine revivals and conversions throughout church history.

Repentance must precede faith because it addresses our fundamental need to be reconciled to God. Without understanding our need for repentance, we cannot fully grasp the necessity of faith in Christ. The ultimate goal of conversion is to bring us into a right relationship with God, which is the primary purpose of Christ's work. As we continue to explore these themes, we must test ourselves to ensure we are truly in the faith and not deceived by false conversions.

Key Takeaways:

- Conversion is the conscious response to the Holy Spirit's work, marking the beginning of a new life in Christ. It involves turning away from old ways and embracing a new path, highlighting the necessity of both divine and human activity in this transformative process. [03:19]

- Temporary conversions can occur when individuals misunderstand the truth, leading to a superficial change that lacks depth and permanence. It is vital to discern true conversion from temporary experiences to ensure a genuine relationship with God. [12:25]

- Counterfeit conversions may mimic true conversion but are driven by influences other than the truth. These experiences can lead individuals away from authentic faith, emphasizing the need for discernment and adherence to biblical truth. [16:48]

- The essential elements of conversion are repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ. These elements are consistent throughout Scripture and are necessary for a genuine transformation that aligns with God's purpose. [35:24]

- Repentance must precede faith, as it addresses our need to be reconciled to God. Understanding our need for repentance allows us to fully embrace faith in Christ, leading to a right relationship with God, which is the ultimate goal of conversion. [39:06]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - Introduction to the Recording
- [00:41] - The Work of the Holy Spirit
- [01:49] - Manifestations of the Spirit's Work
- [03:03] - Understanding Conversion
- [04:24] - Biblical Context of Conversion
- [06:01] - The Necessity of Conversion
- [07:24] - The Agency in Conversion
- [09:03] - Characteristics of Conversion
- [09:39] - Temporary Conversion
- [12:25] - The Parable of the Sower
- [16:08] - Counterfeit Conversion
- [22:09] - Variable Elements in Conversion
- [30:24] - Permanent Elements in Conversion
- [35:24] - Repentance and Faith
- [39:06] - The Order of Repentance and Faith
- [41:54] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Matthew 18:3 - "Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
2. Acts 20:21 - "Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ."
3. Luke 22:32 - "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

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Observation Questions:

1. According to the sermon, what is the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of conversion? [07:24]
2. How does the sermon describe the difference between temporary and counterfeit conversions? [16:21]
3. What are the two essential elements of conversion mentioned in the sermon, and why are they important? [35:24]
4. How does the sermon explain the order of repentance and faith in the conversion process? [39:06]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. Why might the sermon emphasize the need for discernment between true and false conversions? How does this relate to the biblical passages discussed? [15:25]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that conversion is both a divine and human activity? How does this duality affect a believer's understanding of their faith journey? [08:12]
3. How does the sermon use the example of Peter's conversion in Luke 22:32 to illustrate the concept of turning back to faith? What implications does this have for believers who may stray from their faith? [04:40]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of repentance preceding faith, and how does this align with the biblical examples provided? [39:06]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own conversion experience. How did you recognize the work of the Holy Spirit in your life, and what was your response? [07:24]
2. Have you ever experienced or witnessed a temporary or counterfeit conversion? How did you discern the difference, and what steps did you take to address it? [16:21]
3. In what ways can you ensure that your faith journey includes both repentance and faith? How can you actively cultivate these elements in your daily life? [35:24]
4. Consider a time when you needed to turn back to your faith, similar to Peter's experience. What helped you in that process, and how can you support others who may be going through a similar journey? [04:40]
5. How can you test yourself to ensure you are truly in the faith and not deceived by false conversions? What practical steps can you take to deepen your relationship with God? [42:32]
6. Identify an area in your life where you need to practice repentance. What specific actions can you take this week to address this and move towards a right relationship with God? [39:06]
7. How can you help others in your community discern true conversion and support them in their faith journey? What role can you play in fostering genuine spiritual growth in your church? [15:25]

Devotional

Day 1: Conversion as a Conscious Response
Conversion marks the conscious response to the Holy Spirit's work, initiating a new life in Christ. It involves a deliberate turning away from old ways and embracing a new path, highlighting the necessity of both divine and human activity in this transformative process. This transformation is not automatic or inherited; it requires an intentional decision to follow Christ, prompted by the Holy Spirit's effectual call. The believer's role is to respond to this call, acknowledging the need for change and committing to a life aligned with Christ's teachings. This conscious decision is the first exercise of the new nature, signifying a break from past behaviors and a commitment to a new life in Christ. [03:19]

Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV): "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."

Reflection: What specific old habits or ways of thinking do you need to consciously turn away from to fully embrace your new life in Christ today?


Day 2: Discernment of Temporary Conversions
Temporary conversions can occur when individuals misunderstand the truth, leading to a superficial change that lacks depth and permanence. These experiences may be emotionally charged but are not rooted in a true understanding of the gospel. It is vital to discern true conversion from temporary experiences to ensure a genuine relationship with God. True conversion involves a deep, lasting change that is evident in one's actions and attitudes, reflecting a sincere commitment to Christ. This discernment requires a careful examination of one's faith journey, ensuring that it is grounded in biblical truth and not merely an emotional response. [12:25]

Matthew 13:20-21 (ESV): "As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away."

Reflection: Reflect on your own faith journey. Are there areas where your commitment to Christ might be more emotional than deeply rooted? How can you deepen your understanding and commitment today?


Day 3: Identifying Counterfeit Conversions
Counterfeit conversions may mimic true conversion but are driven by influences other than the truth. These experiences can lead individuals away from authentic faith, emphasizing the need for discernment and adherence to biblical truth. Counterfeit conversions often arise from external pressures or desires for personal gain rather than a genuine encounter with Christ. It is crucial to evaluate the motivations behind one's faith, ensuring that it is based on a true understanding of the gospel and a sincere desire to follow Christ. This evaluation helps prevent deception and fosters a genuine relationship with God. [16:48]

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (ESV): "For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds."

Reflection: Consider your motivations for following Christ. Are there any influences in your life that might be leading you away from authentic faith? How can you realign your motivations with biblical truth today?


Day 4: The Essential Elements of Conversion
The essential elements of conversion are repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ. These elements are consistent throughout Scripture and are necessary for a genuine transformation that aligns with God's purpose. Repentance involves a heartfelt acknowledgment of sin and a desire to turn away from it, while faith involves trusting in Christ's redemptive work for salvation. Together, these elements form the foundation of a true conversion experience, leading to a life that reflects God's character and purposes. This transformation is evident in one's actions, attitudes, and relationships, demonstrating a sincere commitment to living according to God's will. [35:24]

Acts 20:21 (ESV): "Testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ."

Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you need to practice repentance and faith more intentionally? How can you incorporate these elements into your daily walk with Christ today?


Day 5: The Order of Repentance and Faith
Repentance must precede faith, as it addresses our need to be reconciled to God. Understanding our need for repentance allows us to fully embrace faith in Christ, leading to a right relationship with God, which is the ultimate goal of conversion. Repentance involves recognizing our sinfulness and the need for God's forgiveness, while faith involves trusting in Christ's sacrifice for our salvation. This order is crucial for a genuine conversion experience, as it ensures that our faith is grounded in a true understanding of our need for God's grace and mercy. [39:06]

2 Corinthians 7:10 (ESV): "For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death."

Reflection: Reflect on your understanding of repentance and faith. How can you ensure that your faith is grounded in a true understanding of your need for God's grace and mercy today?

Quotes



Conversion is the first exercise of the new nature in ceasing from old forms of life and starting a new life. That's conversion. It is that first action of the regenerate soul in moving from something to something. The very term suggests that, doesn't it? It means a turning from one thing to another. [00:03:36]

It is essential that we all be converted. Nobody is born a Christian into this world. We are all born in sin, shapen in iniquity. We are all born the children of wrath as others. We are all subjects of original sin and original guilt, so we all must undergo conversion. [00:06:48]

In any definition of conversion, you must bring in the human activity as well as the Divine activity. The Call Comes effectually, and because it comes effectually, you and I do something about it. That's conversion: the two sides, the call, the response. [00:08:03]

It is vital that we should consider the Biblical teaching about conversion because there is such a thing as a temporary conversion. Now put that in inverted commas: temporary conversion. Have you noticed how often that is dealt with by our Lord himself in his own teaching? [00:09:16]

There is such a thing as a temporary conversion, a temporary believer, but he's not a true believer. That is why it's so vital we should know the Biblical teaching as to what conversion really is. [00:14:18]

In the case of a counterfeit conversion, it is a phenomenon that resembles and simulates very closely Christian conversion but has been produced by some other agency which is not the truth. So I think you must draw the distinction. [00:16:15]

The essential elements in conversion must be quite plain and quite clear. Another argument I have for saying it is this, and I do want to emphasize this at this present time: what the scripture tells us as to the permanent and essential elements in conversion has always been repeated in all great revivals in the long history of the Christian church. [00:30:00]

There are two essential elements in conversion, and these two, I say, are emphasized everywhere in the scripture. You'll find them in the gospels, you'll find them in the book of The Acts of the Apostles, you'll find them in the Epistles. What are the two elements in conversion? [00:34:03]

Repentance toward God and Faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. Those are the two essential and the only two essential elements in conversion: repentance, faith. Sudden, gradual, doesn't matter. Repentance must be there. Faith must be there. [00:35:24]

Repentance comes before Faith. Paul puts them in that order: testifying both to the Jews and to the Greeks, repentance toward God and Faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. That's the order. Why must it be that order? Why must repentance come first? [00:36:48]

The primary thing in conversion, the primary thing in the whole of Christian salvation, is to bring us into the right relationship to God. Why did Christ come? Why did he die? The answer is that he did it all to bring us to God. [00:39:55]

The thing we all need is to be right with God, in the right relationship to God. Nothing matters but that. It starts with God because what's wrong with everybody is that they're in a wrong relationship to God. So we must put repentance first. [00:41:18]

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