Understanding the ‘Relapsing Concept” By Babatunde Olugboji
Relapse” is the recurrence of symptoms, such as drug use or mental health issues, after a period of improvement. It is a gradual process, not a sudden event, often occurring in stages. This is also applicable in the spiritual realm as explained by Jesus in Matthew 12:43-45.
In this passage, the Savior presents a thought-provoking and somewhat ambiguous discourse regarding the expulsion of evil spirits. The central idea is that the removal of an evil spirit may only be temporary, contingent upon the actions of the individual following the expulsion.
This concept is examined from the perspective of the evil spirit, rather than the individual from whom it has been expelled: ‘When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walks through dry places, seeking rest, and finding none. Then he said, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he finds it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goes he, and takes with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.’ 
The pivotal term here is ’empty’, which translates to “scholazonta” in Greek, also interpreted as ‘unoccupied’. This scripture suggests that the evil spirit has been successfully expelled out of an individual and perhaps some associated negative influences, such as deception, self-deception, a sinful lifestyle, and suffering.
In this manner, they have managed to eliminate something detrimental; that is, they have achieved, at least momentarily, the removal of demonic elements from their lives. However, they have left their ‘house (their soul) ’empty’ or ‘unoccupied’. While it has been cleansed, it remains devoid of substance. The term ‘unoccupied’ implies that the soul may even be idle. This indicates that the individual has yet to fill their soul with Christlike influences, they have not substituted negative elements with positive ones from the throne of grace.
This appears to be of significant importance. Human beings require purpose. There is a profound need to engage in endeavors that are virtuous. If we fail to fill our lives with Christ, if we are not connected to the vine like Jesus said in John 15, eventually, something will take root within us. A vacant soul is easily filled with negativity, vice, misleading notions and demonic influence. Conversely, if we are actively nourishing our spirits, illuminating our lamps, and enriching our souls with truth and light of Christ, it becomes more difficult for malevolent influences to infiltrate our lives.
At the very least, we will possess the spiritual and intellectual resources necessary to confront and resist evil when faced with it. This is one reason why it is crucial to immerse our children and youth in the Scriptures, both at home and in church environments. We must demonstrate to them how to replenish their lamps, that is, how to lead a life that embodies the continual replenishment of our lamps. 
The key takeaway is that the gospel of Jesus Christ is not a passive endeavor on our part. It necessitates effort for the pursuit of goodness, with the help and support of the Holy Spirit. Living the gospel involves actively and habitually introducing positive elements into our lives, rather than merely avoiding negative ones.
Have a great week
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