The Bible differentiates between regeneration and conversion, where conversion involves exercising the new life given by God.
The concept of conversion is addressed in Luke 22:32, where Jesus tells Peter, 'When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.' Here, conversion is not equated with regeneration, which is solely God's work of implanting spiritual life in an individual. Instead, conversion represents the active exercise of that life. While regeneration is a singular, transformative act that brings a person from death to life, conversion is a continuous process of growth in grace and knowledge of Christ, reflecting changes in attitude, spirit, and conduct.
Scripture References:
Luke 22:32, Matthew 18:3, Acts 11:18, Acts 3:19, Ephesians 2:1, Romans 7:18, John 15:5, 1 Corinthians 12:3, Ephesians 2:8, Matthew 12:33-34, Ephesians 2:1-5, Ephesians 2:5, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Acts 16:19-34, Jeremiah 31:18-20, Ephesians 2:12
Commentary