RETURN TO GOD, HE WILL HEAL YOUR BACKSLIDING

JEREMIAH 3:12-22

INTRODUCTION

It is a fearful thing for a believer to backslide, so much mercy has been shown, so much love has been enjoyed, and so much comfort is sacrificed by his backsliding. Backsliding is a wretched business indeed since nothing is gained by it and everything is endangered. Backsliding is injurious to the church and mischievous to the world. The medicine for backsliding is to “RETURN”. God invites and does not drive, instead of threats He gives promises and healing. Sin is washed away not by fear of penitence, but by the blood of Jesus Christ.

Let us learn:-

I.  THE WONDER AWAKENED BY THE CALL (3:12)

• There are so many reasons why the Lord should not invite the backslider to return.

1. The usual jealousy of love- (v.1) a wanton adulteress is allowed to return to her husband.
2. The abundance of sin “Thou has polluted the land” (v.2) – The very earth, felt the leprosy of idolatry.
3. The obstinate continuance in evil (v.3) – “You refused to be ashamed.”
4. The refusal of tender persuasion- (v.4)
5. The perversion of God’s mercy- Because God is long-suffering they sinned more. (v.5)
6. The warnings that have been despised (V.6-11)

• God is long-suffering, His mercy bids backsliders to return!!

II.  MEMORIES AROUSED BY THE CALL.

1. Remember when you first came to Jesus,
2. Remember when you were happy with other believers,
3. Remember when you could teach and warn others.
4. Remember when you began to go aside, a little.

III.  REASONS URGED FOR OBEYING THE CALL

1. It is God Himself calling. Twice we read “saith the Lord”
2. Anger will be removed “I will not curse mine anger to fall upon you” (V.12-13)
3. Love continues “I am married to you” (v.14)
4. Healing will be given “ I will heal your backslidings” v.22
5. Our world glorifies the thrill that comes from wealth, power, fame and sexual pleasure, but ignores the sin that is associated with these thrills.
6. Satan comes promising wealth, power, fame and sexual pleasure, at the end of it all it brings destruction, death and everlasting hell.

IV.  GOD MAKES OBEDIENCE TO HIS CALL EASY (V.13,21-23)

1. “Only acknowledge your sin” (V.13) repentance is a change of mind and heart.
2. Lament the evil- “Weeping and supplication” (V.21)
3. Own the sad results, “we lie down in our shame”
4. Trust God for restoration (v.23)
5. Heartly renew allegiance (v.22)

• These are the things when attended to will restore the backslider to God.

V.  PROMISES MADE TO THOSE ANSWERING TO THE CALL;

1. Special guidance, “ I will bring you to Zion” (v.14)
2. Suitable food, “Feed you with knowledge” (V.15)
3. Spiritual insight (v.16-17)
4. Childlike spirit-“Thou shall call me ‘My Father” (V.19)

CONCLUSION;

• All believers need this message for we may have already backslidden.
• The Lord says “Return, Return, Return!!”