Actually a number of Calvinist's commentaries that I have would disagree with my interpretation as well. They claim this refers to apostates in the end times as foretold by Christ. In any event all of them agree that while these people may give the appearance of being in the Church they are not of the Church for if they had been of the church they would have continued with the church. The end result is the same; people fall away.
Let me ask you under your interpretation,
Interesting. It appears that the Church has ALWAYS had to deal with apostates, so it is not surprising that men will fall away. I believe in the very earliest Church, apostasy was considered the worst of sins - even unforgiveable. But I believe Jesus also admitted that such would not be the end.
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all [these things] must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Mat 24:5-6
Many will believe they have the answer in contradistinction to the Church's proclamation of the Gospel - have fallen away from the community - but the end is not yet...
Have you gone on sinning willfully after coming to a knowledge of Christ? Do you feel there still remains a sacrifice for sins in your case?
Me personally? I can't remember when I willfully committed a deadly sin, after my reversion. If I had, I am certain that I had confessed it and had returned to Christ, as the Prodigal Son.
Regards