The Meaning of Conversion

“Conversion is conversion from a self-centered person to a God-centered person.” – E. Stanley Jones

Conversion is not optional. Jesus was clear, “Truly I say to you, Except you be converted, and become as little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 18:3 AKJV). The Apostle Peter said the same thing, “Repent you therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19 AKJV).

Conversion means to turn around. We can illustrate it by imagining a person heading in one direction and then turning around and heading in a completely different direction. That is conversion. Repentance is changing your mind, conversion is changing your direction in life.

And this is what E. Stanley Jones is pointing to. Before conversion, everyone is self-centered. They are living their life on their own terms, they are doing what they want when they want. They are lord of their lives.

Conversion is turning from selfishness and surrendering to God. Now you are living your life on God’s terms, doing what God wants when God wants it done. You become a God-centered person. God is now the Lord of your life. That is what conversion is.

Contact Form

Name

Email *

Message *

About

Dr. Jay Forrest is a Christian Philosopher, Certified Meditation Teacher, Independent Researcher, and Specialist in Christian Mysticism. Jay did his undergraduate work at Central Bible College and Global University, and received his Doctorate of Ministry from Trinity Evangelical Christian University. Jay has been an ordained minister for four decades and is the Author of 23 books.

Scripture Quotations

Unless indicated otherwise, all Scripture quotations are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition. Copyright © 2021 National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Scriptures marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved.

Scriptures marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.