The Bible tells us many accounts of people who persevered and kept their faith, but it also records instances of those who fell short and walked away. One of these is a man named Demas, who joined the Apostle Paul early on but ultimately abandoned him.
Who was Demas?
In his earlier years, Paul named Demas as a close companion in his ministry. In his letters to the Colossians and to Philemon, which were written during his first imprisonment, Demas was mentioned as part of the ministry team.
"Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you." – Colossians 4:14 (KJV)
"Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers." – Philemon 1:24 (KJV)
From these passages, we can be confident that Demas was well known to those in the church. Paul counted Demas among his most trusted companions, and Demas was deeply involved in ministry.
Demas Loved the World
Roughly five to seven years later, during Paul’s second imprisonment, Paul writes about a tragic turn in Demas' life:
"For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia." – 2 Timothy 4:10 (KJV)
At the time of this letter, Paul was living in his final days, writing from inside a Roman prison, fully aware that his end was near:
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." – 2 Timothy 4:6-8 (KJV)
Why Did Demas Leave?
Paul doesn’t provide many details about Demas’ change of direction, except for one key reason: Demas "loved this present world." Rather than continuing in the work of God, Demas chose to return to a more comfortable life, going to Thessalonica.
Loving the World More than the Work of God
The story of Demas shows us that even those who are deeply involved in ministry are not immune to the pull of the world. Demas, once faithful, was not able to endure to the end:
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." – 1 John 2:15-17 (KJV)
Living for God is a Daily Choice
The story of Demas also shows us that living for God is an ongoing, daily commitment. Paul remained steadfast, showing that living for God is not a sprint but a steady walk that requires faithfulness even through trials.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)
Conclusion
The story of Demas may be a disappointment, but it also serves as a powerful reminder. We are called to love God above all else and to remain faithful despite the pull of worldly pleasures. Let his story be a warning to us all to keep our hearts focused on Jesus and to fight the good fight of faith until the end.