Nobody is born saved. Growing up in the church does not save us!  Each individual needs a personal experience with God. First-generation converts were saved out of the world, from false religion, from addictions, or the prison system, as was this writer. The changes God brought to our lives were publically visible. In many ways, we can testify, "Once I was blind, but now I see!" However, our children and grandchildren who grew up in the church also need a genuine encounter with the Lord.