Conversion and Born Again

Dr. Couch, what is the difference between conversion and being born again? ANSWER:  In Webster's Dictionary the popular use of the word "conversion" has to do with turning from one religion to another.    But the biblical word ("strepho, epistrepho") simply means to "turn around, turn back." Some think it means "to repent" ("metanoeo") but actually the two words are used together in Acts 3:19 by Peter. "Repent therefore and return ("be converted") that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord."    The simple word "strepho" is used only one time as "conversion," and that is in Matthew 18:3: "Except you be converted, and become as children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."    With "epistrepho" ("to turn, be converted") we find the word specifically used in Acts 3:19; 9:35; 11:21; 26:20, and, in 2 Cor. 3:16, 1 Thess. 1:9, James 5:20; 1 Peter 2:25.    Conversion is not synonymous with "repent" (metanoeo," "with the mind," or "change the mind"), though it may seem similar. Conversion appears to have the idea of "to change one's physical direction while repent appears to have the idea of "changing the thinking process." Since both words are used in Acts 3:19 they may be working together in the spiritual renewal process.    "To be born again" implies there are two births. One is physical and the other is spiritual. When we are converted and believe in Christ we become another creature, a new creature. "Born again" is from two words ("gennao" and "again"). The word "again" is "anothen" and means "from the first," "over again," "from above" (from heaven). Key passages are John 3:3 and 3:6. "That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." John 3:3: "Unless one should be born again ..."    In John 3 the Passive Voice is used often with "born again." The action is coming upon the individual from an external source. It is something that happens to one by the Holy Spirit. Can a child "birth" itself out of the womb? Of course not! So we have the external work of the Spirit done upon us from above.       Often Catholics or Jews speak of a conversion in which they mean that one changes religion. It is very mechanical and generally is not referring to that which is spiritual. God's Spirit is working within us, and this is very important when we are trying to understand what the Bible is saying.    Thanks for asking.    Dr. Mal Couch (11/10)