“Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power, than by violent and sudden usurpations;” James Madison, Speech at the Virginia Convention to ratify the Federal Constitution, June 6, 1788

“Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one – the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts,” C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters, p. 61

Drifting  Lukewarmness

Lack of Zeal, Complacency, Apathy  Revelation 3:14-17 Lack of vigilance, 1 Peter 5:8 Lack of study, 1 Peter 2:1-2, 2 Timothy 2:15 ○ No need for book, chapter and verse; Rev. 2:14-15 Lack of prayer, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Luke 6:12 Lack of attendance, Hebrews 10:24-25  Proverbs 6:9-11

Drifting  Lukewarmness  Declining standards of behavior

Encroachment of Ungodliness  Failure to guard our hearts and minds Matthew 15:17-20  Failure to bridle the tongue James 3:8-12; Ephesians 4:29, 5:4  Acceptance and excuse making for sin 1 Corinthians 5:1-2; Romans 1:32

Drifting  Lukewarmness  Declining standards of behavior  Pulling away from the brethren

Pulling away from the brethren  John 3:19-21  Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.  Galatians 4:16 Have I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?

Drifting  Lukewarmness  Declining standards of behavior  Pulling away from the brethren  A Devil’s Hell

Returning to death and corruption  2 Peter 2:20-22  Hebrews 6:4-6

We Must Not Let This Happen  1 Corinthians 10:12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.  Matthew 5:3-4  2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.