| God rejoices to forgive and reinstate the backslider. This may seem not fair. The backslider is lost. The pleasure of sin does not compensate for the loss of Godly joy. Anyone could backslide: "Let him who thinks he standeth take heed lest he fall" Guilt and frustration and misery in "living it up". Holy living is joyous and peaceful. Backsliders live with horrible memories. Backsliders regret. Jealousy is over the backslider is not based in reason - it is insane. Imagine the guilt of knowing that someone else is in Hell because of the example of backsliders. Not hopeless as long as any care remains. 39th anniversary of Hollensen ordination (14th of June) almost 33 years at Emanuel, on the radio since 1943. |
