TRUE SIGNS OF CONVERSION

TRUE SIGNS OF CONVERSION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Corinthians 5:17

Supporting Texts: Acts 3:19; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Matthew 3:8; Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 6:4

INTRODUCTION:
Conversion is not just an emotional decision or a mere religious ritual—it is a radical transformation of the heart, mind, and life. When a sinner truly encounters Jesus, there is a clear evidence of a new life in Christ. This experience is not just about words but a deep spiritual regeneration.

Sadly, many claim conversion without the corresponding fruits to show they have been born anew. The Bible teaches us to "examine ourselves whether we be in the faith" (2 Corinthians 13:5). The world today needs genuine Christians who reflect Christ, not just in name but in character, conduct, and commitment.

True conversion goes beyond church attendance and verbal confessions. It brings visible and lasting change. A converted life will produce fruit consistent with godliness and Christlikeness. Let us now examine five true signs of conversion.

1. A NEW HEART AND A NEW SPIRIT
A true sign of conversion is a changed heart and a new spirit from God.

a) Transformation from within (Ezekiel 36:26)
God promises to remove the stony heart and replace it with a heart of flesh. This heart change results in new desires that align with God’s will.

b) Desire to please God (Psalm 40:8)
The converted person no longer finds pleasure in sin but seeks to do the will of God out of love and reverence.

c) Sensitivity to sin (1 John 3:9)
The new heart is grieved by sin and strives to live righteously, not continuing in sinful habits.

d) Evidence of spiritual hunger (Matthew 5:6)
There is an intense thirst for righteousness, prayer, and the Word of God.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus, once a dishonest tax collector, experienced an inward transformation that made him restore what he had stolen and live honourably (Luke 19:8-9).

2. A CHANGED LIFE AND CHARACTER
True conversion will always lead to a noticeable change in behaviour and lifestyle.

a) Forsaking old sinful habits (Romans 6:4)
The truly converted no longer lives in the former manner of sin and worldliness.

b) Demonstrating godly virtues (Galatians 5:22-23)
Love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control begin to manifest as the fruit of the Spirit takes over.

c) Living by the Spirit (Romans 8:1)
Conversion brings a life governed by the Holy Spirit, not by fleshly desires.

d) Integrity in conduct (Proverbs 20:7)
The believer’s word becomes trustworthy, and their life becomes a testimony of uprightness.

Biblical Example: The demoniac of Gadara, after his encounter with Christ, was seen sitting, clothed, and in his right mind—clearly transformed (Mark 5:15).

3. LOVE FOR GOD AND OTHERS
One of the clearest evidences of conversion is a heart filled with God’s love.

a) Loving God wholeheartedly (Matthew 22:37)
The converted soul places God above all else in love, loyalty, and devotion.

b) Loving others sincerely (1 John 4:7-8)
Love flows naturally to others because God is love and dwells in the believer’s heart.

c) Forgiving and reconciling (Matthew 6:14-15)
There is a readiness to forgive offenses and pursue peace with all.

d) Serving others humbly (Galatians 5:13)
Love leads the converted to serve and help others selflessly.

Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan exemplified love for others, not based on race or religion, but on compassion (Luke 10:33-37).

4. HUNGER FOR THE WORD AND PRAYER
Genuine conversion produces a spiritual appetite for the things of God.

a) Joy in studying the Scriptures (Psalm 119:97)
The Bible becomes a daily necessity and source of delight to the converted soul.

b) Consistent prayer life (Luke 18:1)
Prayer becomes not just a duty but a joyful and vital connection to God.

c) Growing in faith and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18)
The new life desires to learn, grow, and mature in Christ daily.

d) Fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25)
Converted people seek spiritual family, encouragement, and accountability in the body of Christ.

Biblical Example: The early church believers "continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship" after their conversion (Acts 2:42).

5. OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S COMMANDS
True conversion is seen in total submission to God’s Word and will.

a) Living by the Word (James 1:22)
A converted Christian doesn’t just hear but does what God says.

b) Willingness to be corrected (Proverbs 9:8-9)
They are teachable and open to godly rebuke and instruction.

c) Keeping God’s commandments (John 14:15)
Obedience is proof of love for Jesus and evidence of transformation.

d) Boldness to stand for truth (Romans 1:16)
The truly converted are unashamed of Christ and committed to living for Him.

Biblical Example: Daniel stood firm in obedience to God despite threats of death, proving his heart was fully converted (Daniel 6:10-11).

CONCLUSION:
Conversion is not a mere human decision but a divine work that leaves lasting evidence. It brings a new heart, a changed life, a love for God and others, a hunger for spiritual things, and a life of obedience. These signs are unmistakable in the life of a truly saved person.

If your life lacks these signs, it's time to return to the cross. Real conversion is possible through repentance and faith in Christ. Let your life testify that you have truly passed from death unto life.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me a new heart that truly loves and follows You.
2. Father, remove every trace of fake conversion in my life.
3. Holy Spirit, help me to bear the fruits of true transformation.
4. Lord, give me the grace to forsake sin and live righteously.
5. Create in me a deep hunger for Your Word and prayer.
6. Help me to love others genuinely and unconditionally.
7. Strengthen my commitment to obey Your commandments.
8. Let my life reflect the character of Christ in all things.
9. Deliver me from every deception of counterfeit Christianity.
10. Empower me to stand for truth and righteousness without fear.