Characteristics of a True Conversion

 

Text: 2 Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."

Introduction:

True conversion goes beyond an emotional decision or simply attending church. It involves a deep transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit in a person’s heart. In this message, we’ll reflect on five key characteristics that reveal a true conversion, according to the Word of God.

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1. Genuine Repentance

Verse:
📖 "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out..." – Acts 3:19

• True conversion begins with sincere repentance.

• It's not just remorse or momentary sadness but a decision to turn away from sin.

📝 Example: The prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32) repents and returns to the father, showing a recognition of sin and desire for restoration.

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2. Life Transformation

Verse:
📖 "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me..." – Galatians 2:20

• A real change happens in thoughts, attitudes, and behavior.

• The person begins to live to please God, no longer themselves or the world.

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3. Hunger for God’s Word

Verse:
📖 "As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby." – 1 Peter 2:2

• A truly converted person has hunger and thirst for the Word.

• There is a genuine interest in learning, growing, and obeying God’s will.

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4. Bearing Fruit

Verse:
📖 "You will know them by their fruits..." – Matthew 7:16

• A new life in Christ produces visible fruit: love, peace, self-control, kindness, faith (Galatians 5:22–23).

• Words and actions reflect the presence of Christ.

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5. Perseverance in the Faith

Verse:
📖 "But he who endures to the end shall be saved." – Matthew 24:13

• True conversion is not temporary.

• Even in trials, the converted believer remains faithful, trusting and following Christ.

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Conclusion:

True conversion is more than raising a hand or repeating a prayer. It is a new birth (John 3:3), a change from the inside out—visible and ongoing. If we are in Christ, something in us must be different.

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Challenge:

Examine yourself today:
🕊️ Does your life reflect these characteristics?
📖 Do you have a hunger for God’s Word, a desire to obey, visible fruit, genuine repentance, and perseverance?

If something is missing, turn to the Lord today and ask Him to complete the good work He began in you (Philippians 1:6).