"Backsliding." If you've been enjoying the message related to the gospel of grace for a while, you may not have heard the word for a long time. On the other hand, it is probably a regular part of one's vocabulary if surrounded by a legalistic landscape. "Backsliding" will have various implications that are defined very broadly amongst the denominational spectrum. How does a person come to be defined as a "backslidden Christian"? Does it mean a backslider is in God's doghouse? Is divine punishment hanging over their heads waiting to fall? Could it possibly mean one is in danger of losing their salvation that was found through belief in Christ—apart from works?
Let's look at this from a New Covenant perspective and scratch off one more worry from the legalistic list.
Some words and phrases that we find within many corners of Christianity can end up bringing a mindset that that leaves people needlessly hungering and thirsting, while they seek some sort of new wave or movement from God that will make things better. Some of these Christian vocabulary words will lead to a case of mistaken identity. “Revival,” “backslidden Christian,” “rededicating your life to God…” Phrases such as these do not define the true identity we have as believers in Christ and should not be part of our mindset, because we’re now defined as righteous, holy, perfected, sanctified, and much more. It’s not up to us! His life in us is more than what is needed. He is the head of the body; Jesus is alive and well, and so are you in Him!