Lesson 142: SORROW OF A BACKSLIDER – PART 2

INTRODUCTION: In the first part of this series, we examined the two lives: the one without Christ and how gloriously pleasant is the life of Christ. The difference was clear. It will be a very sad thing to go from the life in Christ to the life without Christ. May it never happen to us in Jesus’ name. Amen. Now we continue with series as we search the scriptures for the real meaning of backsliding and some of its basic causes. May the Lord quicken our understanding as we study at His feet in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

1. WHAT EXACTLY IS BACKSLIDING?
Basically, backsliding means ceasing to follow Jesus Christ. But there are other definitions of backsliding in the scriptures. For example, the following amount to backsliding in the sight of the Lord. (i) Changing a Christian decision (ii) condoning the sins of others (iii) Remembering old glories instead of achieving new ones (iv) resting on ones achievements instead of pressing forward (v) refusal to make progress (vi) loss of enthusiasm and (v) failure to make decision who would take over from oneself.

Tim. 4:10; Luke 9:62; Heb. 10:38; Pr. 24:24-25; Pr. 28:4; Is. 43:18-19; Phil. 3;13-14; John 15:1-25; Re. 2:4; I Sam. 3:11-13.

2. CAUSE OF BACKSLIDING
The causes of backsliding could be many and varied. Some of which are (i) disappointment by Christian elders (ii) Satanic deceit (iii) pride of achievement (iv) evil association (v) wrong spiritual leadership and (vii) severe trial. Now, once we know our enemies, they should not be able to destroy us again if we are careful. To be fore warned is to before armed.

Jer. 9:4; .for. 17:5; Gen. 3:4-5; Gen. 25:29-33; I Pet. 5:5; Dan. 4:29-33; 1 Kings 11:4; II Sam. 11:1-5; Ex. 32:1-8; Jer. 51:30; Zech.4:6.