Backsliding
Backsliding refers to decreasing religious commitment and turning away from God. The importance of remaining steadfast in faith is emphasized in the Old and New Testaments.
Adultery of Backsliding
God declared that “backsliding Israel committed adultery” Jer 3:8.
Backsliding Heifer
The Lord lamented, “Israel slideth back as a backsliding heifer” Hos 4:16.
Confession of Backslidings
Jeremiah confessed, “Our backslidings are many, we have sinned against thee” Jer 14:7.
Turning to Sin and Idolatry
Israel repeatedly turned from God and engaged in the sin and idolatry of their pagan neighbors Ezr 9:10; Is 1:4; Ez 11:21.
Forsaking the Lord
Israel lusted after abominations and forsook the Lord and His commandments Ezr 9:10; Is 1:4; Ez 11:21.
Violation of the Covenant
They worshiped idols and practiced harlotry Ps 78:10; Jer 2:11; Hos 4:10.
Forgetting God’s Works
The people forgot God’s mighty works, ignored His counsel, and rejected His instruction Psalms 78:11, 107:11, Is 30:9.
Delight in Perversions
Hardhearted and rebellious, they delighted in perversions Jer 3:21.
Misleading Religious Leaders
Religious leaders led the people astray Is 9:16.
Faithless Priests
The priests proved themselves faithless shepherds Jer 50:6.
New Testament Warning
Jesus warned, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” Lk 9:62.
Abide in Christ
Jesus exhorted the disciples to “abide” in Him and His words Jn 15:4–8.
Prodigal Son Parable
Illustrates the rebellion of an erring son and the forgiveness of a gracious father Lk 15:11–32.
End Times Warning
Jesus observed that toward the end of the age, “most men’s love will grow cold” Mt 24:12.
Remedy to Backsliding
Steadfastness and perseverance are the only reliable antidotes to backsliding.
Say this prayer to be saved or to renew your relationship with God:
Father in Heaven, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for the forgiveness of my sins. Lord Jesus, please forgive me for all my sins. Come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Teach me the Word of God and help me live for You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
