2 Peter 2:21KJV
[21] “For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.”
Let me begin by saying that there is a difference between struggling and turning. The crowd in this verse was ignorant of the right way. They had been taught correctly, given the truth, and knew the way of righteousness. The Lord was gracious to give them the light that many long to hear.
However, they rejected the light and went their own way. These people have not wandered off accidentally. They made a conscious choice to go in another direction. Knowledge increases responsibility! You cannot abandon the truth that God gives you and escape the consequences of your actions.
Today, many have walked away from their heritage. I think it is one of the great signs of the last days. Some have walked away because they were never truly saved. Others have simply followed the crowd because it was more socially accepted. Remember that anytime we want to sin, there will be a group of sinners who will join in and support us. Rest assured, the Devil will make sure that it happens. Never make your decisions based on how many people support what you are doing. Base your decisions upon God’s Word.
Whenever people walk away from the truth, they feel the need to justify themselves. They will begin to make excuses and blame others for leading them away. They may act like they are being treated better by the world than they were by God or His people. We know that these are nothing more than lies that Satan has fed to them.
The real truth of this text is that they would have been better off being ignorant rather than knowledgeable. To know the truth of God’s Word and reject it is a seriously sobering thought. God will hold every man accountable for himself. We will all give an account to God as individuals. Dear reader, thank God for the truth that you have been given. Rejoice that you have not been deceived. Make it your goal to cling to your Bible all the days of your life. Hold fast to what the Lord has given you and treasure it always. We are blessed to have a Bible. We must read it, study it, and apply it to our lives every day. Do not allow anyone to sway you on what the Bible says. Do not be influenced by the foolish decisions of even close family members and friends. Allow the Word of God to guide you daily.