THE DANGER OF BECOMING REPROBATE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Romans 1:28 "And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient."
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INTRODUCTION
The journey of faith is one that requires diligence, perseverance, and continual fellowship with God. However, not all who start this journey remain faithful to the end. Many grow cold, distant, and eventually fall away. This spiritual deterioration does not happen overnight; rather, it is a gradual process that often goes unnoticed until one finds themselves completely detached from God. This condition is what the Bible refers to as being reprobate—having a mind that is no longer sensitive to the things of God.
In this teaching, we will examine how believers can unknowingly drift into a state of spiritual reprobation, the dangers associated with it, and how to safeguard against this tragic downfall. We will also explore the role of media, materialism, and spiritual sloth in drawing people away from God. Lastly, we will look at the example of Jesus Christ, who overcame the temptations of the devil, and how we can learn from His obedience.
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THE GRADUAL FALL INTO REPROBATION
Falling into a reprobate state is not instantaneous; it happens by degrees. The enemy works subtly, encouraging believers to grow distant from God, often without them realizing it. The world, the flesh, and demonic influences work together to lead people away from their relationship with God.
Supporting Scripture:
James 4:4 "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."
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THE ROLE OF MEDIA AND MATERIALISM IN SPIRITUAL DECLINE
The modern world is filled with distractions, and one of the most powerful tools used by the enemy is the media. People are bombarded daily with messages that promote lust, pride, and self-indulgence. Instead of meditating on God's Word, many Christians spend hours consuming content that weakens their spiritual sensitivity.
Supporting Scripture:
1 John 2:16 "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world."
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THE SPIRITUAL SLUMBER THAT LEADS TO DAMNATION
Many who become reprobate do so because they grow spiritually lazy. They neglect prayer, fasting, and studying the Word. When spiritual disciplines are abandoned, the heart becomes hardened, and sin takes root. This results in people no longer being able to discern between good and evil.
Supporting Scripture:
Hebrews 5:14 "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
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JESUS: OUR PERFECT EXAMPLE OF OBEDIENCE
Jesus Christ faced temptations, yet He never wavered in His obedience to the Father. Unlike many who fall into deception, Jesus remained steadfast, refusing to be enticed by Satan’s offers. He demonstrated the power of submission to God's will, showing us that victory over temptation is possible when we stay rooted in Him.
Supporting Scripture:
Matthew 4:10 "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
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SUMMARY
The pathway to reprobation is one of gradual decline. It starts with small compromises—allowing worldly distractions to take precedence over spiritual growth. The enemy uses media, materialism, and spiritual laziness to pull believers away from God. If not checked, these influences lead to a hardened heart and, ultimately, to a state of spiritual abandonment.
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CONCLUSION
God does not call His people to be reprobate. He calls them to remain in constant fellowship with Him, rejecting the temptations of the world. Each believer must choose to stay alert, alive, and active in their faith, resisting the allure of sin. Those who fall away do so because they stop allowing the Holy Spirit to search their hearts daily.
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THE CALL TO ACTION
Today, examine your heart. Are you growing distant from God? Are you allowing the world to shape your desires? Make a conscious decision to turn back to God. Repent, seek His presence daily, and immerse yourself in His Word. Avoid the broad way that leads to destruction and choose the narrow path of righteousness.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
God is merciful and willing to restore those who repent sincerely. If you have found yourself drifting away, know that He is calling you back. Do not delay in returning to Him. Stay vigilant, remain steadfast, and walk in the obedience that leads to eternal life.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, or if you have strayed and wish to rededicate your life to Him, say this prayer with sincerity:
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I repent of my sins and ask You to cleanse me with Your precious blood. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Be my Lord, my Savior, and my guide. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Stay connected to Him through prayer, reading His Word, and fellowship with other believers.
