Backsliding is a term used to describe the weakening of a Christian’s commitment to Christ that is often manifested in a more worldly attitude and behavior.  Holiness groups use the term and often teach that such backsliding can lead to the loss of salvation.  This is not held by Calvinist groups.

The term is used in the NASB in Prov. 14:14, “The backslider in heart will have his fill of his own ways, but a good man will be satisfied with his,” and Jer. 49:4, “How boastful you are about the valleys! Your valley is flowing away, O backsliding daughter who trusts in her treasures, saying, ‘Who will come against me?’”.

References are often sighted dealing with backsliding are

• Mark 13:16, “and let him who is in the field not turn back to get his cloak.”
• Luke 9:62, “But Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
• John 6:66, “As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore.”