Turning back

"Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction." 2 Thessalonians 2.3

What happens to those who turn their back on Jesus? God alone knows but the Bible offers strong hints which, together with common sense, should set alarm bells ringing. To embrace Jesus as Lord and Saviour, to receive the gifts of forgiveness and grace and then to throw it back or wander away is tantamount to rejection. And Jesus is clear about the consequences: deny him on earth and be denied by him in heaven. How could we expect it to be otherwise?

This is why we are right to be concerned about those we know and love who are in this position. It is not just that they are missing out in this life. The danger is that they are consigning themselves to an eternity of suffering and regret. Rather than shutting one's eyes and hoping for the best, we need to pray for something - anything - to jolt them back to their senses. And look for every opportunity to be a part of the answer: not by wagging a finger but coming alongside in support and encouragement.