SHIPWRECKED FAITH

The enclosures represent ships being tossed and inundated by the sea. The holes that have been sheared away suggest the hull of the ship damaged by running aground to emphasize the idea of a shipwreck. The ships also allude to tombs or caskets to illustrate the extent that punishment may be carried if there is no sign of correction. The empty casket challenges the believer-- and how much more the unbeliever--to ask, “Is this space reserved for me?” The mirrors hidden in various openings are to reinforce this self-examination.

This piece is a strong warning to the Church. It is an exhortation to examine yourself and rid yourself of the sinful things for which Christ died. Believers are warned not to persist in sinful behavior, for God's call is that of repentance leading to holiness: “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy'” (1 Peter 1:15, 16). If believers continue in sin and shame the name of Christ, God may severely discipline them, “because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son” (Hebrews 12:6) that “we may share in His holiness” (Hebrews 12:10). Those who do not respond to God's correction and who have “shipwrecked their faith” may be “delivered to Satan” (1 Timothy 1:19, 20).

Faith is given the analogy of a ship we pilot. We sail to a destination which is unseen, yet we know by faith that we will arrive. But some steer the wrong course again and again into sin, and eventually wreck their faith on its hidden and treacherous reefs. Faith becomes ruined and can carry the pilot and its cargo no further. The blessings it may have distributed will not reach any shore. The pilot falls short of his goal and has stranded himself on the reef of sin. With God, the ship may be rebuilt through repentance. If not, a “destroying angel” may be sent to bring the believer home. “Hand this man over to Satan, so that the sinful nature may be destroyed and his spirit saved on the day of the Lord” (I Corinthians 5:5).

“When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world” (1 Co. 11:32).

“Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did… So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!” (1 Co. 10:6, 12).