No Turning Back

In our spiritual journeys, we often find ourselves at crossroads, faced with choices that can profoundly impact our faith. One of the most dangerous paths we can take is turning back from the freedom and grace we've found in Christ, exchanging it for old bondages or new forms of spiritual enslavement. This regression isn't just a step backward; it's a perilous descent that can lead to what we might call "gospel futility."

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, expresses deep concern over this very issue. He asks a poignant question that still resonates today: "How can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?" (Galatians 4:9). This question cuts to the heart of a fundamental struggle many believers face – the temptation to abandon the freedom found in Christ for something that feels more familiar or tangible, even if it's ultimately harmful.

To guard against this dangerous regression, we can follow three crucial steps:

1. Remember What We Once Were

Before we knew Christ, we were enslaved to forces that, by nature, are not gods. In ancient times, this might have meant worshipping celestial bodies or nature spirits. Today, it often manifests as materialism, consumerism, or other modern idols. The spirit behind these false gods remains the same – demonic and enslaving. By remembering our former bondage, we cultivate a deep appreciation for our current freedom in Christ and strengthen our resolve never to return to that state.

2. Be Grateful for What We Have Now

The transformative power of knowing God – or rather, being known by Him – cannot be overstated. This knowledge isn't merely intellectual; it's deeply personal and relational. It's crucial to recognize that we didn't find God on our own. He knew us, chose us, and pursued us. This understanding of God's initiative in our salvation should fill us with immense gratitude, serving as a powerful deterrent against the desire to turn back.

3. Refuse to Exchange One Form of Bondage for Another

The allure of going back often disguises itself as something good or even more spiritual. It might be a stringent set of religious rules, a new spiritual practice, or a return to old habits that promise satisfaction. However, these are often empty promises that cannot deliver true freedom or fulfillment. Like addiction, they may offer temporary relief or excitement but ultimately lead back into bondage.

Jesus himself faced temptation from the devil, who offered Him a fraction of the kingdom He was destined to inherit. This temptation was real and powerful, yet Jesus refused to exchange His mission and relationship with the Father for a counterfeit offer. Similarly, we must recognize that any alternative to the grace and freedom found in Christ is ultimately a poor substitute that cannot fulfill its promises.

The danger of turning back isn't always a return to obvious sin. Sometimes, it's a subtle shift towards legalism – the belief that we must earn God's favor through our own efforts. This mindset is just as perilous as returning to a life of open rebellion against God. It exchanges the freedom of grace for the burden of performance, a weight that even the most devout followers of the Old Testament law couldn't bear.

Reflecting on our own lives, we might find ourselves romanticizing the past or longing for "simpler times." While it's natural to miss certain aspects of our former lives, we must be cautious not to idealize periods before we knew Christ. The nostalgia we feel often glosses over the pain, emptiness, or bondage we experienced then.

Consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 24:12-13: "Because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved." This sobering statement reminds us that salvation is for those who persevere. Our faith isn't a one-time event but a ongoing, life-altering state of being that must be continued to prove genuine.

The apostle Paul's fear for the Galatians – that his labor among them might have been in vain – should prompt us to examine our own hearts. Are we continuing in the faith we profess? Or are we at risk of slipping into gospel futility by abandoning the grace we've received?

As we navigate our spiritual journeys, let's commit to finishing what we started. We must remember what we once were, cherish what we now have in Christ, and steadfastly refuse to exchange our freedom for any form of bondage – whether old or new. The promise of inheriting God's kingdom alongside Jesus far outweighs any temporary satisfaction or false security offered by turning back.

In moments of weakness or nostalgia, when we're tempted to look back longingly at our past, let's recall the words of Colossians 2:20-23. These verses remind us that human regulations and self-made religion, while appearing wise, have no power to curb our sinful nature. Only in Christ do we find true freedom and the strength to overcome.

Let's renew our commitment to persevere in faith, no matter what challenges we face. May we echo the sentiment: "I'm not going back. That's not what justifying, saving faith does." Let's press forward, embracing the grace and freedom found in Christ alone, and encourage one another to stand firm in the face of temptations to turn back. For in Christ, we have everything we truly need – now and for eternity.