Can a backslider be restored?

Introduction

Backsliding is often associated with apostacy or falling away. According to a few biblical encyclopedias and theological dictionaries, backsliding is a waning in religious commitment or temporary lapse into unbelief after a spiritual conversion. In the OT, the term means “turn back” or “turn away.” God considers it faithlessness and spiritual adultery. In the NT, like the OT, it is “turning away” or “falling away.” Some Christians believe a backslider is someone who have fallen from grace and is lost (as in lost salvation), or total apostasy. Other Christians believe it only means a loss of fellowship and effectiveness in the service of God but God’s elect will ultimately be saved (persevere in faith). I am not here to argue who is right or wrong but address whether or not a backslider can be restored according to God’s word? My hope is that this teaching will make much of God’s nature, educate and enrich those of us who are faithful to God to remain steadfast in Christ, warn against backsliding, and call those who are backsliding to remember God, and repent.

Scripture (Luke 15:11-32)

Important principles from the parable of the lost son

Sons are the father’s children

Both have a share in the inheritance

The younger son rebels (turns away) and follows his flesh

The younger son remembered the goodness of his father and looks to return

It was the father, filled with compassion upon seeing the son, who desired to restore him

The son asked for forgiveness

One principle communicated here is those who turn away can be restored by God.

Although Hebrews 6:4-6 says it is impossible for those who were once enlightened and fallen away to be brought back to repentance, in the context of talking about salvation, Jesus said nothing is impossible for God.

Look at Jer 3:8, 22

Why do people backslide?

They forget God (Ezek 23:35)

Failure to grow spiritually (Josh 1:8)

Unbelief (Heb 3:12)

Bitterness (Heb 12:15)

loving the world (2 Tim 4:10)

love of money (1 Tim 6:10)

following false teaching (Col 2:8)

How to prevent backsliding?

Remember God (Ex 34:6-7)

Abide in Christ (John 15:4-7)

Guard against a heart of unbelief (Heb 3:12)

Spiritual maturity (Php 2:12-13)

Being spiritually alert (Eph 6:18)

praying constantly (1 Thess 5:17)

walk in the light as he is in the light (1 Jn 1:7)

What should you do if you find yourself in a backslidden state?

Acknowledge the fact you have backslidden and face up to the consequences

Repent (2 Co 7:10)

Know God forgives