The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

"First, though the consciences of such men are awakened — yet their
minds are not changed. Therefore, when the power of guilt wears off —
then that which caused them to become religious ceases, and they
naturally turn to their own sinful course again. We see this illustrated in
how a sick dog vomits what he has eaten, because it troubles his
stomach. When his sickness is over, and his stomach is eased — the
desire for what he has vomited returns and he licks it all up. And so that
which is written is true, 'The dog returns to its own vomit!'
"They initially are eager for Heaven — but only out of the fear of the
torments of Hell. But when their sense of Hell, and their fears of
damnation chill and cool — so their desires for Heaven and salvation
cool also. It then comes to pass, that when their guilt and fear is gone —
their desires for Heaven and its happiness die, and they return to their
sinful course again.
"Another reason for backsliding, is that they have slavish fears which
overmaster them. I speak now of the fears that they have of men — for
'the fear of man brings a snare.' Though they seem to be eager for
Heaven, so long as the flames of Hell are about their ears — yet, when
that terror diminishes, they begin to have second thoughts. They then
think that it is wise not to run the hazard of losing all — or, at least, of
bringing themselves into unavoidable and unnecessary troubles — and
so they return to their worldly ways again.
"Another stumbling-block which lies in their way, is the shame which
attends religion. They are proud and haughty — and religion is base and
contemptible in their eyes. Therefore, when they have lost their sense
of Hell and the wrath to come — they return again to their former
sinful course.
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