Bible Study: The One Who Blasphemes Against the Holy Spirit Will Not Be Forgiven–Luke 12:10

Bible Study: The One Who Blasphemes Against the Holy Spirit Will Not Be Forgiven–Luke 12:10

“Everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will [potentially] be forgiven. But the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven” –Luke 12:10.

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Every person alive is wise to comprehend the severity of this verse: “Everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will [potentially] be forgiven. But the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven” –Luke 12:10 (see also Mark 3:29; Matt. 12:31-32). We should never become so lax in our faith as to believe there are no consequences for willful disobedience and/or ignorance (sin). There are. And while much of our correction is done with forgiveness (thanks be to God!), there is but one sin we are warned will not be forgiven: blaspheme against the Holy Spirit.

So what actually constitutes blasphemy against the Holy Spirit? For starters, let’s look at what blasphemy means. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, blasphemy is the act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God; the act of claiming the attributes of deity; irreverence toward something considered sacred. Many Bible Scholars throughout history have pondered this verse but for the sake of time, we’ll look at only the most widely accepted explanation.

Many scholars believe blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is the only unforgivable sin because it is an all out rejection of Jesus Christ’s offer of salvation (eternal life). This free gift also includes the forgiveness of sin. Those who are born again receive the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. A free gift that we do not deserve and are wise to cherish. But for those who reject the Gospel saving message of Jesus Christ, willfully deny entrance of the Holy Spirit which stops the required work of sanctification (cleansing of righteousness) in and through their soul. Simply put, if one stubbornly rejects the Gospel of Salvation, they reject also the Holy Spirit, and thus voluntarily exclude themselves from the redemptive forgiveness (of sin) offered by God. And this, according to Scripture, can not be forgiven.

While the warning in Luke 12 may seem direct, the directness is purely for our benefit. Purely out of love for us. In order to commit the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, the child of God would have to entirely reject God’s gift of salvation and forgiveness. And who in their right mind would do that? So fear not! God knows the heart and mind of every believer. He knows your heart and loves you for it.

As you meditate on this verse today, spend time pondering the depth of God’s love, grace and mercy for you (and for all mankind). Meditate on the great sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the gift of the Holy Spirit. We have much to be grateful for. Praise be to God!