RPG Adults
THE DANGER OF FALLING AWAY
MONDAY, AUGUST 12
Hebrews 6:1-8
John 15:1-9
“… He that abideth in me, and I in him,
the same bringeth forth much fruit …”
THE DANGER OF FALLING AWAY
For the believer to fall away from the faith is not theologically possible. Those who do end up leaving the faith show that they were not believers in the first place. They only professed but did not possess faith. These are the people referred to in the text.
Those who harden their hearts and fall away crucify the Son of God afresh and put Him to open shame. The original sin caused by the transgression of Adam was enough to put man in a hopeless position. The salvation that came through Christ brought hope and redemption. The price of that redemption was the suffering and death of Christ on the cross. Crucifixion as a means of discharging capital punishment was reserved for top criminals, murderers and robbers. The Son of God was counted with these transgressors to pay the penalty for those who come to Him for forgiveness of sins. Those who reject this salvation Christ offers are as if they have crucified Christ again.
The writer warned against professing believers who bore no fruits of salvation. He illustrated this with the earth that receives rain and bring forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed. This, he said, receives blessing from God. On the other hand when it bears thorns and briers it is rejected, cursed and burned. The contrast here is very clear. The message is that those who are truly saved ought to bear fruits of salvation and grow in the faith leading to greater blessing while those who only professed faith without fruits of salvation will be cursed. The choice is clear for everyone.
Maturity is the goal of every believer. To achieve that, one needs to continue in learning and obeying the truths of God’s Word. Following the right path brings positive fruits. The danger of being only a professing believer is real and there is need of growth in the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Are you a growing Christian?
THOUGHT: Faith in Christ cannot be mixed with earthly interests.
PRAYER: Father, give me true faith and courage to stand in all circumstances of my life.