Backsliding is reverting to sin or wrongdoing. It is a believer’s downward movement into the sins and evils he had once destroyed upon conversion.

The nation of Israel, taking undue advantage of God's faithfulness to His promise to Abraham, had an unenviable history of backsliding. And each time they did, they would cry unto of God after suffering avoidable hardship. He would forgive them and raise a leader to lead them back to Him in repentance But their repentance, not backed by reverential fear, would not endure.

Jeremiah’s vision was about the impending desolation of the nation. Their fate was now a consequence of the people's rebellion. When a believer falls or realizes he is headed to a wrong direction, wisdom should dictate to him to get up and change direction. But Israel chose to trust the words of false prophets, not minding how God felt.

There is danger when leaders and members in Christian assemblies are close to the level of Israel’s apostasy; when they reject God's word, teach as doctrine the commandments of men, and present rich men as models of righteousness because of financial support. Blasphemous teachings are being dished out from many pulpits today and sound doctrine have been relegated to the background. Yet, God is watching. Backsliders need to repent today before it is too late.