Downward Spiral – From Disinterest to Depravity (Part 6)

Downward Spiral – From Disinterest to Depravity (Part 6)

In Part 1, we introduced the scale of the mind—caught between proving and reprobation. Part 2 explored the Greek roots of dokimazō and adokimos, revealing how testing leads to either approval or rejection. Part 3 reminded us that every believer lives in a season of probation—a time to respond to truth before the test ends. Part 4 showed that love is the key to discernment, enabling us to approve what is excellent. Part 5 called us to renewal and discipline—the means by which proving becomes possible and reprobation is resisted.

Now, in Part 6, we examine the tragic alternative: the downward spiral that leads from disinterest in truth to full-blown depravity. This is not a sudden collapse—it is a slow descent, marked by suppression, substitution, and eventual abandonment. It is the path of the reprobate mind, and it must be understood with urgency and clarity.

The Spiral Begins with Suppression

In Romans 1:18, Paul writes:

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.”

The spiral begins not with ignorance, but with suppression. The truth is known—through creation, conscience, and conviction—but it is held down, resisted, and replaced. This is the first step toward reprobation: the refusal to retain God in knowledge. It is not passive—it is wilful. The mind begins to drift, not because it lacks truth, but because it resists it.

Walking the Line Between Proving and Reprobation (Part 1)

Walking the Line Between Proving and Reprobation (Part 1)

Introduction to the Series

Many believers know they are called to follow God’s will—but few realize that Scripture presents this calling on a scale, a line of spiritual measure that runs between two vastly different minds: one that proves what is good and acceptable in God’s eyes, and one that becomes reprobate, rejected after failing the test. This article begins a crucial series exploring this forgotten scale of the mind, rooted in Paul’s epistles and illuminated through careful word study and real-life application.

Over the next few parts, we’ll uncover what it means to prove the will of God, how to recognize the drift toward spiritual disqualification, and how to realign the mind through intentional renewal. You’ll be equipped with the biblical insight and encouragement needed to stay sharp, faithful, and approved—not just in knowledge, but in daily walk and worship.