The Dangers of Turning Back: From Life to Toxic Waste By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"But it has happened to them according to the true proverb, a dog returns to his own vomit, and a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire." – 2 Peter 2:22
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Introduction
In life, there are critical decisions that shape our eternal destiny. God desires His people to stay true to His calling, walking in holiness and righteousness. However, when men, women, and children turn away from God and return to sin, they risk becoming like toxic waste in His sight. Such a state arises when individuals yield to their own carnality and demonic influences, justifying their sinful actions and seeking to draw others into their poisonous way of life. This lesson will explore the consequences of turning away from God, the danger of becoming spiritually contaminated, and how we are meant to stay firm in our faith and commitment to God.
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The Poison of Sin and Unbelief
When individuals turn back to sin, they become spiritually toxic. They reject the fountain of living water, choosing instead to drink from the polluted wells of the world. Their actions not only harm themselves but also seek to contaminate others through their words and deeds. They justify their sin by spreading poison, influencing others to follow their destructive path. This poison is the unbelief that leads to death, not life. When we embrace sin and unbelief, we step away from God’s presence and His plans for our lives, walking in a dangerous direction that leads only to destruction.
“The one who does not believe God has made Him out to be a liar, because they have not believed the testimony God has given about His Son.” – 1 John 5:10
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The Consequences of Turning Away from God
Those who turn away from God and refuse to repent face devastating consequences. They reject the very inheritance that God has promised them, and in doing so, they forfeit the life that He desires to give. Their lives become filled with misery as they block out the memories of the truth and fight against the very Kingdom they once embraced. When they persist in their rebellion, they become enemies of God’s Kingdom, consumed by demonic powers that lead them deeper into spiritual darkness. Their refusal to repent and turn back to God leads them down a path of ultimate destruction.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23
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The Spirit of Anti-Christ at Work
Those who embrace sin and try to deceive others are operating under the spirit of anti-Christ, not the Holy Spirit. The spirit of anti-Christ is the spirit of rebellion against God and His authority. It leads people to oppose God’s truth and to embrace deception and lies. These individuals seek to sow doubt, division, and disbelief in the hearts of others, hoping to lead them away from the path of righteousness. Their words are filled with venom, and their intentions are driven by the enemy’s desire to destroy faith and trust in God.
“Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son.” – 1 John 2:22
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The Idol of Self and the Worship of Flesh
One of the greatest idols that those who turn away from God worship is the god of self. This self-idolatry is rooted in pride and a desire for autonomy, rejecting the authority of God over their lives. Those who are intoxicated with self-love see themselves as greater than they are, believing they know better than God. This pride leads them to murmur against God, complain about His ways, and question His commands. However, the god of self is no true god at all, and those who worship it are led down a path of spiritual ruin.
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” – Proverbs 16:18
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The Call to Stand Firm in Faith
As believers, we are called to stand firm against the seductions of sin and the toxic influences of this world. We are not meant to listen to those who seek to poison our faith, but instead, we are to resist their influence and remain rooted in the truth of God's Word. The Holy Spirit is our guide and protector, leading us into all truth and keeping us from falling into the traps set by the enemy. We must cultivate an attitude of gratitude, thanking God for His protection, guidance, and the power of His Spirit in our lives.
“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” – Ephesians 6:14-15
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Summary and Conclusion
Turning away from God leads to spiritual contamination, making one like toxic waste in His sight. When we yield to sin, we reject the life and inheritance God offers, falling into a destructive pattern of unbelief and rebellion. The consequences of this choice are dire—misery, spiritual death, and ultimately, eternal separation from God. It is essential that we recognize the spirit of anti-Christ at work in those who seek to deceive, and resist the idol of self that leads to pride and destruction. We must stand firm in our faith, reject the toxic influences around us, and remain faithful to God’s calling on our lives.
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Call to Action
If you have found yourself turning away from God, it is time to return to Him with a repentant heart. Do not allow the poison of sin and unbelief to contaminate your soul. Turn back to God, ask for His forgiveness, and choose to walk in the path of righteousness. Resist the lies of the enemy and stand firm in your faith, trusting that God will guide you and protect you. Stay close to the Holy Spirit and live in the joy of His presence.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Beloved, the road of repentance and faith may not always be easy, but it is the only way to eternal life. Do not listen to the voices of poison and deception, but follow the voice of the Holy Spirit, who leads you into all truth. Stay rooted in God’s Word, stand firm in your faith, and live with the assurance that He is with you, guiding you every step of the way.
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Salvation Prayer:
If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, I invite you to pray this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I come before You today and confess my sins. I believe that You are the Son of God, and that You died for my sins and rose again. I ask for Your forgiveness and accept You as my Lord and Savior. Help me to walk in faith, to trust You, and to live according to Your will. Thank You for Your saving grace, and may Your peace fill my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
Welcome to the family of God! Keep walking in His truth and live in the power of His Spirit.
