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Why Are Believers Departing from the Faith?

Apostle Oral Hazell @ Departing From the Faith audio

Introduction

In a world marked by shifting values and evolving ideologies, a concerning trend has emerged: many believers are departing from their faith and straying away from their first love for God. This departure from faith has deep-rooted implications, especially in the context of the last days. In this blog, we will explore this phenomenon through the lens of scripture, highlighting five reasons why believers are departing from their faith and providing insights into the travesty of backsliding. We will also delve into the importance of returning to one's first love in God, supported by eight compelling reasons.

1. Neglect of Personal Relationship (Scripture: Revelation 2:4-5)

Power Point 1: Revelation 2:4-5

"Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first."

Explanation: The scripture from Revelation emphasizes the significance of maintaining a fervent love for God. Believers often depart from the faith when they neglect their personal relationship with God and fail to nurture their initial zeal.

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2. Distractions of the World (Scripture: 1 John 2:15-17)

Power Point 2: 1 John 2:15-17

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world."

Explanation: The world offers countless distractions that can lead believers away from their faith. The scripture in 1 John underscores the need to prioritize God over worldly desires.

3. Loss of Spiritual Discipline (Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2)

Power Point 1: Hebrews 12:1-2

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."

Explanation: A lack of spiritual discipline can cause believers to depart from their faith. The scripture from Hebrews encourages believers to cast off hindrances and maintain focus on Jesus, highlighting the importance of perseverance.

4. Influence of False Teachings (Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:3-4)

Power Point 2: 2 Timothy 4:3-4

"For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."

Explanation: False teachings and distorted doctrines can lead believers astray. The scripture in 2 Timothy warns against embracing teachings that cater to personal desires but deviate from the truth.

5. Lack of Community and Accountability (Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

Power Point 1: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."

Explanation: Isolation and a lack of accountability can contribute to departing from faith. The scripture in Ecclesiastes underscores the importance of community and mutual support among believers.

The Tragedy of Backsliding in the Last Days

The last days present a tragic scenario where believers, influenced by the complexities of the world, may forsake their faith. It is a time marked by spiritual lukewarmness, compromised beliefs, and the allure of worldly pleasures. In these times, believers must recognize the urgency of returning to their first love in God.

Conclusion: Reasons to Return to First Love

Restoration of Joy and Purpose: Reconnecting with God brings back the joy and purpose that comes from a genuine relationship.
Renewed Spiritual Growth: Returning to one's first love ignites spiritual growth and maturity.
Steadfastness in Trials: A strong relationship with God provides stability and strength during life's trials.
Eternal Perspective: Focusing on God's love helps believers keep an eternal perspective in a temporary world.
Impact on Others: A vibrant faith inspires others and reflects God's light to the world.
Escape from Worldly Bondage: Returning to God breaks the chains of worldly temptations.
Restoration of Fellowship: Reconnecting with God deepens fellowship with the body of believers.
Assured Salvation: Rekindling one's faith ensures the assurance of salvation in Christ.

In the midst of a world that constantly tugs at our beliefs and values, believers must prioritize their relationship with God. By recognizing the reasons for departure and the blessings of returning to their first love, believers can navigate the challenges of the last days with unwavering faith.