Becoming a Christian
Peter started with his conversion experience. There are many examples of conversion eg. Petrol to gas, Eagles to Dockers, Metric to Imperial. In general, conversion is an exchange of one measure for another. Many people may say that they are converted to Christianity. Luke 13:1-5. Everyone must repent (or turn or be converted from selfishness to Jesus) I need to be saved from a disaster. We were all dead in our trespasses and sin. There are no innocent human beings. What should amaze us is that anyone is spared another day to repent. I need to be reborn come alive spiritually I need a new kind of life I need a profound change of heart Acts 16:14. Peter describes the new heart My side of conversion. Do a U turn Ezekiel. I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked but that they turn and live. Being sorry for sin is not enough. There has to be a willingness to turn away from sin. Turn from sin towards Jesus in faith. Ask for forgiveness Believe in Jesus’ finished work Confess that Jesus is Lord God’s side of conversion. He draws us and gives us opportunity to respond. He gives us gifts of faith if we are willing to receive them. The Holy Spirit is the mid-wife of the new birth.