In biblical terminology, a "backslider" refers to an individual who has turned away from God after having once followed Him. This concept is primarily rooted in the Old Testament, where the Israelites are often depicted as backsliding from their covenant relationship with God. The term is closely associated with spiritual apostasy and moral decline.

The prophet Jeremiah frequently addresses the issue of backsliding among the people of Israel. In Jeremiah 3:22 , God calls out to His people, saying, "Return, O backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings." This verse highlights God's willingness to forgive and restore those who have strayed from Him, emphasizing His mercy and desire for reconciliation.

Hosea also speaks to the condition of backsliding, portraying Israel as an unfaithful spouse. Hosea 14:4 states, "I will heal their apostasy; I will freely love them, for My anger has turned away from them." Here, God's promise to heal apostasy underscores His enduring love and commitment to His people despite their unfaithfulness.

In the New Testament, the concept of backsliding is not explicitly named but is addressed through warnings against falling away from the faith. Hebrews 6:4-6 warns of the dangers of apostasy, describing those who have once been enlightened and then fall away as being in a perilous spiritual state.

The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 serves as a vivid illustration of backsliding and redemption. The younger son, who squanders his inheritance in a distant land, represents a backslider. His eventual return to the father, who welcomes him with open arms, symbolizes God's readiness to forgive and restore those who repent.

Good Man

The term "good man" in the Bible is often used to describe an individual who lives in accordance with God's commandments and exhibits moral integrity. The concept of goodness is deeply rooted in the character of God Himself, who is the ultimate standard of goodness.

In the Old Testament, the Psalms frequently describe the attributes of a good man. Psalm 37:23 states, "The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey." This verse suggests that a good man is one whose life is directed by God, and who finds favor in His sight.

Proverbs 12:2 further elaborates on the character of a good man: "A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but the LORD condemns a man who devises evil." Here, the contrast between the good man and the wicked highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of goodness.

In the New Testament, the concept of a good man is exemplified in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 12:35 , Jesus teaches, "The good man brings good things out of his good treasure, and the evil man brings evil things out of his evil treasure." This passage underscores the idea that goodness is a matter of the heart, manifesting in one's actions and words.

The apostle Paul also speaks to the qualities of a good man in Galatians 5:22-23 , where he lists the fruit of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." These virtues are indicative of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit, reflecting the character of a good man.

In summary, the Bible portrays a good man as one who aligns his life with God's will, demonstrating righteousness, integrity, and the fruit of the Spirit. Such a person is marked by a heart that treasures goodness and seeks to live out God's commandments in daily life.