www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Faith & Theology Commiting sin and the withdrawal of God's Grace

Hello. I read this qoute on the homepage. I'm wondering what Saint John means by falling because of a withdrawal of Gods grace, and then having to fall and get up again until our death. Why would God withdraw his Grace? Is it something done to train us for our benefit? or done because of commiting a grave sin and thus the Holy Spirit not entering a soul because he/she is in debt to sin?

Do all in your power not to fall, for the strong athlete should not fall. But if you do fall, get up again at once and continue the contest. Even if you fall a thousand times because of the withdrawal of God's grace, rise up again each time, and keep on doing this until the day of your death. For it is written, 'If a righteous man falls down seven times' - that is, repeatedly throughout his life - 'seven times shall he rise again' [Prov. 24:16].

John of Karpathos

WB,

From the context of the quote, I think the part about "the withdrawal of God's grace" has to do with the fact that we cannot live righteously and avoid sin without the power of grace. I don't think it has to do with "commiting a grave sin and thus the Holy Spirit not entering a soul because he/she is in debt to sin."

Others may have a different perspective or insight on this.


Peace,
Deacon Richard

Christos posred' nas (Christ is in Our Midst)!

This may have been a failure to receive God's Reconciliation frequently enough to empty him of his sins, and to renew his spirit. One should always receive God's grace through this at least once a year, at least twice, even if you feel you haven't committed any sins, there's no doubt that there will be that need to think about something that you thought was not right of you to do. It's the frequency of how much you use this Mystery/Sacrament to your advantage that can make all the difference.

Thank you both for your replies.

Slava Isusu Khrystu.

Grace is God's uncreated energy given to all the baptized. We are always in God's grace. When we reject it we fall into sin and need confession to heal our failures.

I saw it as more of a personal rejection of God's grace which will lead to confession