What Does a Backsliding Christian Mean?

In various Christian settings, whether it's a local church or elsewhere, we might have encountered the term "backslider." Often, this refers to someone who initially joined a church or ministry but later reverted to their previous ways. You might notice these individuals gradually disappearing from the church scene. While this is a common perception, delving deeper into the concept of a backsliding Christian unveils a more comprehensive understanding.

To tackle the question of "what does a backsliding Christian mean?" we must begin by examining the term "Christian," which signifies a follower of Christ. We assume this person has placed their faith in Jesus and experienced spiritual rebirth. Thus, their salvation remains secure, unassailable by external forces. The blood of Christ guarantees it, and the Holy Spirit seals it.

Hence, as we address the question "what does a backsliding Christian mean?" we should acknowledge that we're not delving into the realm of eternal security. Our focus shifts to the individual's behavior and deeds. In essence, when we say someone is backsliding, it signifies a return to their former ways.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; [9] not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. [10] For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” –Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB95

Paul's letter to the Ephesian church underscores that salvation is a gracious gift from God. Our works or efforts didn't bring about our salvation; it was an outcome of God's mercy. He provided us with Christ, who sacrificed His life for us, kindling hope within us. Those who believe in Jesus receive the invaluable gift of salvation, leaving no room for boasting before God.

However, as we read through verse 10, we learn that God calls the saved to perform good works. God has designated a unique path for us as the redeemed. This path is marked by good deeds—obedience to God's commands and resistance against temptations. This lifestyle is expected of a Christian. In one of David's Psalms, God is portrayed as our Shepherd who guides us along the paths of righteousness.

“He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake.” –Psalm 23:3 NASB95

True vs. Professing Christians 

Based on good works, we can undoubtedly address the question, "What does a backsliding Christian mean?" However, before we delve into that, let’s recognize the two sides of the spectrum. On one side are those who genuinely placed their faith in Jesus, while on the other side are those who did not. Regardless, we must bear in mind that we can't judge a person when it comes to their faith. Only the individual knows whether they've truly embraced faith in Jesus. Assessing their salvation based on their actions is a futile exercise, as salvation is a result of grace. Even the sinner crucified alongside Christ had no opportunity for good deeds or to demonstrate salvation through actions. But still, when he put his faith in Jesus, the Messiah assured him that “today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

True Christians

So, what does a backsliding Christian mean? A genuine Christian who backslides is someone who strays from the path God has laid out for them. Backsliding implies a departure from doing good deeds, reverting to former behaviors for a considerable duration. We might observe their absence from church events, a return to vices, or engagement in illicit relationships. These actions are opposed to the good deeds they were once known for. Instead of walking the path of righteousness, they take steps in the opposite direction – this is what we refer to as backsliding.

A backsliding Christian does not, by any means, forfeit their salvation. The bond with God is unbreakable, beyond the power of external forces. When Paul states in the book of Romans that nothing can separate us from God's love, this means even ourselves cannot do something that might separate us from His love. The believer’s salvation remains secure, anchored in the love of God in Jesus Christ who sacrificed His life at the cross.

“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, [39] nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39 NASB95

Although a backsliding Christian may wander astray for a while, the same love described in Scripture is what aids them in finding their way back. Just as an earthly father disciplines their children, our heavenly Father also corrects those He loves. This is known as chastisement–a corrective discipline as an expression of God's fatherly love and concern for His children's well-being. 

“It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?” –Hebrews 12:7 NASB95

When we veer away from God, He does not permit us to remain on the wrong path indefinitely. Through His discipline, He might allow us to encounter circumstances that serve as reminders to return to abiding in Him (This could manifest as challenging situations). God is determined in guiding us back to the correct path. Why? Because He cares for us and desires to rescue us from a miserable life of sin.

Professing Christians 

On the flip side of the coin, we have individuals who claim to be Christian but haven't placed their faith in Jesus. These folks might be akin to the "rocky soil" in the Parable of the Sower. They initially receive the word with joy, and for a period, they might relish the company of Christians or engage in church activities. They could even exhibit changes in their lifestyle due to teachings or the influence of believers. Yet, they lack true faith in Jesus. When challenges arise in their lives, they go back to their old habits and halt their progress toward becoming better individuals. The temptations of the world expose their genuine hearts.

“Those on the rocky soil are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no firm root; they believe for a while, and in time of temptation fall away.” –Luke 8:13 NASB95

These are the very individuals we should never abandon. They also need to encounter Christ and be rescued from eternal suffering. By sharing the Gospel with them, we allow them to place their faith in Jesus. They're a part of our mission–people who must learn about the love of Christ. Being aware of the stark reality that awaits them, it's our privilege to share the Gospel with them.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” –Romans 1:16 NASB95

Abide in Christ 

Our calling is to stay connected with Christ. The best place we can be is right by His side, in a close and intimate relationship with Him. Straying from Him won't bring any good into our lives; it will only lead to hardship. Let's make every effort not to follow the world's ways or our selfish desires. These might offer temporary happiness, but in the long run, they'll leave us miserable. True joy only comes when we walk in the Spirit and stay rooted in Christ.

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.” – John 15:4 NASB95

When we stay connected with Christ, our lives naturally become more fruitful and meaningful in God's Kingdom. This is exactly how God designed it to be. Backsliding won't lead us anywhere beneficial. When all is said and done, the smart choice is to stay connected with Christ!