"GENUINE CONVERSION"

"Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 18:3 NASB

Being a church member isn’t just about attending Sunday School, worship services, or Bible studies. In fact, being part of a ministry doesn’t necessarily make one a healthy church member. So, how can one be considered a good church member?

In this series, I will be giving you five marks that should give you a clear picture of a good church member.

A healthy church member is genuinely converted.

I think the first place to check is our standing with God. Are we genuinely converted? What is conversion, to begin with?

In today’s verse, the disciples ask Jesus about who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus tells them that unless they are converted, they won’t even be allowed to enter heaven.

The term “converted” comes from the Greek “strepho,” which  metaphorically means “to turn one's self from one's course of conduct, i.e. to change one's mind.” By saying so, Jesus tells His disciples to turn from their present attitudes of personal greatness and become like a child in innocence, purity, and faith.

True conversion happens when we acknowledge our sinfulness and unworthiness and come to Jesus as our only hope. This is what repentance looks like. It begins with the correction of one’s view of God, sin, justice, and eternal life. This rectified understanding results in a significant change in one’s life by turning away from sin and pursuing holiness. This attitude continues throughout the Christian life.

When you are in a personal relationship with God, transformation is inevitable. You and the people around you will notice that this change is becoming more and more obvious. And part of this change is you caring for God’s family, a.k.a. the church.

So, when you are truly converted, it wouldn’t be wrong to conclude that you are a healthy church member.

Pursue the Savior today!