Backsliding

From time to time, believing Christians may discuss and/or debate topics found in God's Word. One such subject is backsliding. By definition, backsliding is when someone who has known and walked with God begins to move (slide) back in their faith instead of forward. There are numerous biblical references both in the Old and New Testament. Jeremiah (2:19) says that your backsliding will rebuke you. The Apostle Paul asks the church in Galatia, But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? (Galatians 4:9). While John in the Book of Revelation (2:4-5) tells the church in Ephesus that he holds it against them for forsaking their first love.

With the warning of backsliding being throughout the Bible, it is important to understand some of the causes.

1. Worldly Success - This can draw us away from God. Solomon had everything except full devotion to God (1 Kings 11:4)

2. Shallowness - How firmly rooted is your relationship with Christ? How deep does it run (Luke 8:13).

3. Emptiness of Life - We have not learned to be content. How much is enough? (Hebrews 13:5)

4. Lack of Spiritual Insight and Belief - In this passage, Jesus also references predestination (John 6:63-66).

5. Love of the World - Some believers are unable to completely let go (2 Timothy 4:10).

In spiritual warfare, it is vitally important that we study and understand all of God's Word. Even when it may be difficult and at times controversial...

Pastor Aaron