Many well-meaning people want to be Christians, but lack a full understanding of what the Bible teaches and God expects about conversion. Conversion, which leads ultimately to salvation, begins with an awareness of sins that we committed, as well as the fact that we have a nature inclined to sin. This awareness, coupled with a strong desire to seek God’s forgiveness and to stop sinning, is evidence that God is calling a person to salvation (John 6:44).

Early in this process, the person seeks out a spiritual education from the Word of God, the Holy Bible. One has to learn what sin is, before he or she can truly make progress in turning from it. Without a careful study, some would-be Christians overlook actions that they’re doing that they don’t realize God calls sin. This can result in feelings of frustration and discouragement, for without genuine repentance, there can be no forgiveness.

Two additional essential elements in the process of conversion are baptism (by immersion) and the laying on hands by a minister of God to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). After baptism, the Christian must continue to use the gift of the Holy Spirit to study and understand the instructions of God, recognizing and turning from sin, resisting and overcoming the pulls of human nature.

We have a marvelous Bible Study Course that can take you through the entire Bible and plan of God in a series of 12 easy-to-read lessons, supplemented with literature that amplifies specific subjects. Two of our Bible study aid booklets, Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion and The Road to Eternal Life, explain what the Bible teaches about repentance, sin, receiving and using the gift of the Holy Spirit and remaining faithful in the Christian way of life.