Many people wrestle with what it really means to be converted. Some say conversion is just a decision one makes, while others suggest that one must wait and hope God chooses them. And if you’ve grown up hearing about deep emotional experiences being part of conversion, you might wonder, “Have I really been converted? Did I do it right?”
This is a common struggle, and it’s important to look to Scripture to clear up the confusion around conversion.
Misunderstanding #1: Conversion Is Just a Human Decision
Some people say that conversion is just a matter of choosing Jesus, like picking an item off a menu. But the Bible says conversion is something God does in us—not just a choice we make.
Psalm 19:7 – God Converts the Soul Through His Law
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.”
God’s Word isn’t just advice—it actually transforms us. The 1689 London Baptist Confession (Chapter 10) calls this the effectual call—where God awakens a spiritually dead person to new life.
So, what’s our role? We respond. Conversion isn’t us taking the first step, but it’s also not passive. It’s God calling, and us answering.
Misunderstanding #2: Conversion Happens Automatically
Some think that because God is sovereign, conversion just “happens” without a personal response. But Jesus says otherwise.
Matthew 18:3 – The Sinner Must Be Converted by Embracing Childlike Humility
“Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus is saying conversion requires humility—admitting our need, letting go of pride, and depending on Him completely.
So, do we play a part? Yes. The 1689 Confession (Chapter 14) says faith is a gift from God, but we are responsible to exercise it.
Misunderstanding #3: Conversion Must Be an Intense Emotional Experience
If you’ve grown up hearing testimonies full of deep sorrow, overwhelming guilt, and dramatic change, you might think: If I didn’t feel that, am I really converted?
Acts 3:19 – The Sinner Must Repent to Be Converted by God
“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.”
Repentance is a key part of conversion, but the Bible never says it has to look a certain way emotionally.
Some people weep for hours. Others quietly believe and obey. Wilhelmus Brakel describes this in is his “the Christian’s Reasonable Service” books. The 1689 Confession (Chapter 15) explains that repentance is a grace-enabled response, not something we manufacture through emotions.
So what matters? A changed heart. Turning from sin. Trusting in Christ. That’s conversion.
Misunderstanding #4: Christians Have No Role in Helping Others Be Converted
Maybe you’ve heard people say, “God will save people when He wants to, so we don’t need to do anything.” But the Bible says otherwise.
James 5:19-20 – A Believer Can Be Used by God to Convert a Straying Sinner
“Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death.”
God uses His people to help others find the truth. The 1689 Confession (Chapter 20) affirms that God uses the preaching of the gospel as the ordinary way He brings people to faith.
What does that mean for us? We can’t change hearts, but we can share the truth, pray, and trust God to work.
Final Thoughts: What Is Biblical Conversion?
Here’s what the Bible teaches:
- God initiates conversion through His Word and Spirit (Psalm 19:7, John 6:44).
- The sinner must respond in humility and faith (Matthew 18:3).
- True conversion requires repentance—a turning from sin (Acts 3:19). The 1689 Confession (Chapter 15) calls this a grace-enabled response to God’s call.
- Believers are called to share the gospel to help others find conversion (James 5:19-20).
Conversion isn’t about waiting for a feeling or just making a decision—it’s about trusting Christ and following Him. If you’ve been wondering whether you’re truly converted, take heart. Christ’s invitation is clear:
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
But don’t worry if you don’t feel your sins and misery enough. As Jeremiah said, our hearts are desperately wicked – who can know the depths of it? Noone. Isaiah says in Isaiah 45:22: “Look unto Me, all ye ends of the earth, and be ye saved”. Look to Christ and live! Christ came to save sinners, whether they are great or little sinners, young or old. He is most able to save, and most willing to save. He saves every single person who comes to Him, and casts none out.
If you’re struggling with this, feel free to reach out!
