This term conveys the idea of a decisive turning—an outward redirection that springs from an inward change. While commonly rendered “conversion,” it also includes the nuance of “returning” or “reorientation,” emphasizing both the break with a former path and the positive movement toward God and His ways.

Occurrence in Scripture

Acts 15:3 contains the single New Testament instance, describing Paul and Barnabas traveling through Phoenicia and Samaria, “describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles and bringing great joy to all the brothers” (Acts 15:3). Though the word appears only here, its theological resonance spans the canon through related vocabulary and themes of repentance, returning, and renewal.

Theological Significance

1. Conversion as Divine Initiative: Scripture consistently portrays genuine turning to God as a work of grace (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). The term underscores that salvation is not merely moral reform but a Spirit-wrought change of allegiance and heart orientation.
2. Conversion as Human Response: While God grants repentance, individuals are repeatedly called to turn (Isaiah 55:7; Acts 3:19). The word unites divine sovereignty and human responsibility without contradiction.
3. The Joy of the Church: Luke records that news of Gentile conversion produced “great joy,” highlighting the communal celebration of God’s saving work and reminding modern congregations to rejoice when sinners turn to Christ (Luke 15:7).

Historical Context in Acts 15

The Jerusalem Council addressed whether Gentile believers must adopt Mosaic customs. The report of widespread Gentile conversion strengthened the argument that faith alone unites believers to Christ. This single usage thus anchors a pivotal moment in redemptive history, confirming that the gospel transcends ethnic and ceremonial boundaries (Acts 15:7-11).

Old Testament Echoes

Prophets repeatedly called Israel to “return” (shuv) to the LORD (Jeremiah 3:12-14; Hosea 14:1). The Greek term captures the same covenantal summons, showing continuity between the Testaments: God’s people are always a turned—and turning—people.

Related New Testament Language

While Strong’s 1995 appears once, its verbal counterpart (Strong’s 1994) is frequent, describing turning from idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9), turning sinners from error (James 5:19-20), and the Lord’s turning of hearts (Acts 26:18). Together they build a robust doctrine of conversion that encompasses repentance, faith, and new life.

Pastoral and Practical Applications

• Evangelism: The term assures believers that clear proclamation of the gospel can produce genuine turning, regardless of cultural background.
• Discipleship: Conversion marks a beginning, not an endpoint; ongoing renewal follows the initial turn (Romans 12:1-2).
• Church Unity: Just as the early church rejoiced over Gentile conversions, modern assemblies should celebrate every testimony of transformation, fostering unity across ethnic and social lines.

Witness in Early Church History

Patristic writings testify to dramatic conversions—Justin Martyr from philosophy, Augustine from worldly ambition—illustrating that the biblical pattern continued beyond the apostolic era. Their accounts echo Acts 15:3, reinforcing confidence that the gospel still turns hearts.

Conclusion

Though occurring only once in the Greek New Testament, this term encapsulates the heart of salvation history: God calls, sinners turn, and the church rejoices. It stands as a concise reminder that the gospel is the power of God to redirect lives, peoples, and ultimately the course of the world.