Reflections on Our Moral Condition and the Hope of Spiritual Renewal
Introduction: What Does It Mean to Be “Twice Dead”?
“These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead.” (Jude1:12)
Have you ever felt like something is missing, even when you’re doing your best to live a good life? There’s a phrase in the Bible—“twice dead”—that captures a deeper struggle many of us face, even if we’ve never heard those exact words before. Simply put, being “twice dead” means not only struggling outwardly with life’s challenges, but also feeling empty or disconnected inside. It’s a call to reflect on what really brings us life, purpose, and hope.
Understanding Our Condition: More Than Just Rules
All of us know what it’s like to make mistakes. Sometimes we break the law—maybe speeding on the highway or something more serious. But there’s another kind of “death” that’s not about breaking laws; it’s about losing touch with what’s good and true inside ourselves. This is moral death. When that inner compass fails, we not only feel lost but also unable to help ourselves. To be “twice dead” is to experience both kinds of emptiness: the outward problems we face and the inner sense that something vital is missing.
The Hopelessness Without Revelation: When Laws and Philosophy Fall Short
For centuries, people have come up with laws to help us get along and philosophies to help us understand life. Laws can keep us in line, and philosophy can make us think deeply. But have you noticed that even with all these rules and wise sayings, we still struggle with selfishness, anger, and broken relationships? Laws can tell us what not to do, but they can’t change our hearts. Philosophy can explain why we feel empty, but it can’t fill that emptiness. We need something more—a change that starts from within.
The Need for a Second Revelation: Mercy, a Savior, and a Renewing Spirit
So, what’s the answer? Many believe that what we need is a second revelation—something that doesn’t just tell us what’s wrong but also offers healing and hope. This is where mercy, a Savior, and a renewing Spirit come in. Mercy means we’re not defined by our worst moments. A Savior offers us a way out when we can’t rescue ourselves. And a renewing Spirit gives us the power to become new people, no matter how many times we’ve failed. This isn’t just about religion; it’s about real change that starts in the heart and makes life worth living again.
Unbelief and Philosophy: Why Human Effort Isn’t Enough
It’s tempting to think we can figure things out on our own. Maybe if we just read enough, think hard enough, or try harder, we can fix ourselves. But time and experience show that our own strength has limits. We need something beyond ourselves—something (or Someone) who can bring light and life into the places where we feel “twice dead.” Relying only on our own understanding can leave us stuck in the same old patterns.
Biblical Context: “Twice Dead” in Jude 1:12
The phrase “twice dead” comes from the New Testament book of Jude, chapter 1, verse 12. In that passage, it’s used to describe people who look alive on the outside but are spiritually empty inside—like trees that don’t bear fruit, even though they should. It’s a warning, but also an invitation: we don’t have to stay that way. There’s hope for new life.
Conclusion: Hope and Renewal Through a Second Revelation
If you’ve ever felt “twice dead”—weary of rules that don’t change you and philosophies that leave you wanting more—know that you’re not alone. The good news is that a second revelation is possible. Mercy, a Savior, and a renewing Spirit are available for everyone, right now. There’s a path to real hope and renewal, not just on the outside but deep within. Maybe it’s time to consider taking that step and discovering what new life could mean for you.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 