The Departure – Part Two

The Departure – Part Two

“And the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and teachings of demons”
1 Timothy 4:1

The departure spoken of here is not from “a” faith but from “the” faith. The article “the” in the Greek is speaking of a particular faith, that which the New Covenant declares as a living, vibrant faith. A faith accompanied by the works of its own influence. Many speak of faith, many rest in the words of the sacred scriptures, but the faith spoken of here brings us to Him, and through Him the works of faith are evident.

How subtle and deceptive is the slow departure from that which is living to that which is in name only.

“And do you wish to know, O vain man,
that faith apart from works is dead? ”
James 2:20 (LSV)

The Greek word translated “apart, without (KJV)” simply means “apart or separated”. It is a faith inherently separated from God’s power. It remains alone, disconnected from the pulsating life of God.

We are to take heed to the warning and admonition from God.

“the Spirit expressly says that in latter times”

God’s word does not say “maybe” in the latter times; it states emphatically that this departure will characterize this day. The Holy Spirit of God is declaring that there will be a departure from the faith. The Greek Word translated “depart” means to “to stand off, to stand aloof” to be unmoved or unaffected by the influence of faith. The words, the beliefs, and the correct understanding of God’s Word may remain, but the power and pulse of Christ’s life is no longer resident within.

God’s Word to the church at Sardis was:

“The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead”
Revelation 3:1 (ESV)

God’s verdict of their standing was based upon Him knowing their works not their beliefs. They carried a reputation in the community that they were alive, but the One who has the “seven spirits of God” saw things differently.

This is a blessed warning for us to stay current, alive, and responsive to His movings within. The One who sees and knows all things is the very same One who warns us to walk “carefully” in this hour.

“Because of this, He says, Arise, sleeping ones and stand up out of the dead ones, and Christ will shine on you. Then watch how carefully you walk, not as unwise, but as wise ones, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:14-16

See: Proverbs 16:17

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“Given a man full of faith, you will have a man tenacious in purpose, absorbed in one grand object, simple in his motives, in whom selfishness has been driven out by the power of a mightier love, and indolence stirred into unwearied energy”
Alexander MacLaren

Brian Troxel