Unlike the teachings of many today, a Christian can fall from grace. Paul warned in Galatians 5:4 that a return to the traditions of the Old Law could result in falling from grace. In Hebrews 3:12, the Hebrew writer warned Christians to beware, “…lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God…” Also, in 1 Corinthians 10:12, Paul warned the church in Corinth, “Therefore let him who think he stands take heed lest he fall.” There is absolutely a possibility of apostasy.
Unfortunately, there are many that we know who have fallen away. Some returned to their former lusts, some suffered terrible loss, and others were hurt by brethren. In every case, they are living in a state where there remains no more sacrifice for sins (cf. Heb. 10:26). But that does not mean there is no hope for them. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). They can always choose to return to the Lord.
Returning to the Lord, however, must be on His terms. At the end of the Book of Hosea, the prophet ends his indictment of the sinful nation of Israel by explaining what their return to God must look like. Despite Israel treating the Lord like an unfaithful spouse, He promised that He would allow them to return to Him (Hos. 2:19; 3:5), if they submitted to His conditions.
First, Israel had to recognize their fault. “For you have stumbled because of your iniquity” (Hos. 14:1). A Christian cannot be taken out of God’s love (Rom. 8:38-39). But, every day, God’s people choose to leave Him. To return to God, you must understand your guilt.
Second, Israel had to forsake their sins. “Take words with you, and return to the Lord. Say to Him, ‘Take away all iniquity…’” (v. 2a). A Christian must abandon the sin that led him astray. We cannot continue in sin (Rom. 6:1-2).
Third, we must return our devotion to God. “Receive us graciously, for we will offer the sacrifices of our lips. Assyria shall not save us, We will not ride on horses, Nor will we say anymore to the work of our hands, ‘You are our gods’” (vv. 2b-3). Sometimes the hardest part of returning to the Lord is facing the church. It is embarrassing to fail in the eyes of our brethren. But we cannot be in fellowship with God if we are not in fellowship with the church (cf. 1 John 1:6-7; Heb. 10:24-25).
Do you need to return to the Lord? The Bible is clear that if we forget the Lord, He will forget us (Hos. 4:6). But He has promised to restore us if we are willing. Are you ready to return?