# IX: Backsliding explained — The Way to God and How to Find It

> Chapter companion for The Way to God and How to Find It by D. L. Moody.

## What happens

Moody addresses the issue of backsliding, distinguishing between those who have never truly been converted and those who have genuinely known Christ but turned away. He emphasizes that God is always ready to heal and restore, and that the first step back is to acknowledge one's iniquity and return to the Lord. He warns against self-confidence, using Peter's fall as an example, and encourages believers to rely on God's grace and not on their own strength.

## Themes in this chapter

### Backsliding and Restoration

The chapter focuses on the reality of backsliding and God's promise to heal and restore those who return.

### Human Inability and Divine Grace

Highlights that humans cannot save themselves and must rely on God's grace to restore them.

### True Repentance

Emphasizes the need to acknowledge iniquity and turn back to God as the first step of restoration.

## Character check-ins

### Moody

The author and speaker, offering counsel and warnings to backsliders.

### Peter

His fall is used as an example of how self-confidence leads to downfall.

### Jesus Christ

The one whom backsliders have left, and who is ready to receive them back.

### Moses

Cited as an example of a strong man who fell due to a hasty act.

### Elijah

Cited as an example of a bold man who fled in fear.

### Judas

Mentioned as one whom Satan singled out among the twelve.

## Key lines

> I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely: for Mine anger is turned away.

God promises to heal those who have strayed and to love them without reservation, having turned away His anger.

_The key verse of the chapter, emphasizing God's readiness to restore._

> Only acknowledge thine iniquity.

Simply admit your sin, and God will forgive you.

_Moody highlights this as a crucial step for backsliders._

> Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

If you believe you are standing firm, be careful not to fall.

_A warning against self-confidence, using Peter's example._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_to_god_and_how_to_find_it_se/chapters/ix-backsliding
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_to_god_and_how_to_find_it_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_to_god_and_how_to_find_it_se/chapters