Romans 1:28

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

Lee Trevino was quoted to say, “you can talk to a fade, but a hook won’t listen.” A fade is a gently curving shot path to the “opposite field”, while a hook violently curves to left of left off the right-handed golfer’s club. The hook is so dramatic, it cannot listen as it’s path is so extreme. The fade, however, is more amiable to listening because it is path is usually still within the confines of the hole and course. Further, the fade is playable because it’s path is predictable and stays in play.

The reprobate mind is one of the saddest considerations within the spiritual realm. Everyone is capable of accepting Christ as their Savior, but not everyone will be saved. We certainly have a righteous, patient, and long suffering Savior. However, some will never be saved because of a hardened heart that is unwilling to repent of their sins.

In Romans 1:26-32, Paul outlines the behaviors of those who had been “given over to a reprobate mind.” The Greek translation for “reprobate mind” is “unapproved, rejected, and worthless.” In Titus 1:16, Paul went further describing the sinful behavior of these people. He stated they “profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” In verse 15, he describe these people as having gone so far that “even their mind and conscience is defiled.” These are a people “who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” Romans 1:32.

One can rightfully discern that no one is incapable of being saved by the grace of Jesus Christ. However, one must repent of his/her sins and put faith in Him in order to be saved. A conviction to repentance comes only by the drawing of the Holy Spirit. The reprobate’s behavior is not only sinful, but has gone on to such a degree that both mind and conscience are defiled.

There is a big difference between “can’t” and “won’t be saved.” The grace and mercy of Christ will save even the vilest sinner, but not everyone will accept salvation. We must still continue to witness and live our lives in a manner which reflects the love and mercy of our Savior. Even though some will never accept, we must continue to witness with the hope and desire the person will soften his or heart to the Holy Spirit’s calling. We still yell “stop” to those drives violently “hooking” towards the hay field, don’t we?