The Way to God and How to Find It · Chapter
IX: Backsliding explained
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.
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.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Climax.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
The emotional/psychological peak occurs in the stark diagnosis of the backslider’s condition—their ear is “unc…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes 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.
Characters to notice
- 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 passages
“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.
