A state of apostasy is worse than a state of…

A state of apostasy is worse than a state of ignorance; this condemning the way of righteousness, after they have had some knowledge of it, and expressed some liking to it carries in it a declaration as if they had found some iniquity in the way of righteousness, and some falsehood in the word of truth. To bring such an evil report upon the good way of God, and such a false charge against the way of truth, must expose to the heaviest condemnation. The horrid state of such backsliders is portrayed in strong colours, as resembling two of the most disgusting and loathsome habits, which the whole animal race can supply. And there are indeed many who thus verify these true sayings, but it never shall happen to any who are new creatures in Christ, and made partakers of the Divine nature. Let us then pray continually, Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew a right spirit within us. A holy Commandment is given to us, as well as exceeding great and precious promises; let us beware of turning from the precepts, as much as of rejecting the truths of Christianity. Let us equally avoid antinomian corrupters of the gospel, and pharisaical opposers; for both are alike the enemies of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. How dreadful is the state here described . How dangerous when the person has abandoned himself to his old sins ! Yet it is not said that it is impossible for him to return to his Maker; though his case is deplorable, it is not utterly hopeless; the leper may be made clean, even the dead may be raised. Is thy backsliding a grief to thee believe in the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved.

Matthew Henry

— with [Caleb Arinaitwe](https://www.facebook.com/caleb.ayebale).