Written by: Lucas Bueno
The unpardonable sin is an ominous concept when holding the belief in a God who can and will forgive all of our sins.
It appears antithetical to the hopeful and beautiful verse of 1 John 1:9, which says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Questions are raised in our minds. If God forgives all sins, then what is the unpardonable sin? Have I committed this sin, and therefore forever lost? Such questions can cause great anxiety, pain and doubt.
To bring clarity, answers and hope concerning this topic, we must examine the words of Christ Himself on the topic. He speaks on this in Matthew 12:31-32.
“Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
First, Jesus clarifies the blessed truth, that all sins will be forgiven. However, he makes an exception regarding blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, blasphemy is primarily thought to regard one calling themself God. While this is true, blasphemy also refers to blatant disrespect or rejection.
Here Jesus says that a blatant disrespect, disregard or rejection of the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Now all of us have fallen short, we have disregarded the guidance of the Spirit, but Jesus, with all His mercy, is not referring to our daily shortcomings.
A blasphemy of the Holy Spirit is a continual rejection of the convictions, urgings and
guidance from the Holy Spirit, who was sent to guide and comfort. If one continues to rebel against this guidance and warnings, he or she will enter a path where they will not be able to hear the Spirit anymore.
God has given us free will, and if we so choose to continually reject His plan and counsels by not heeding and obeying the Holy Spirit, then that sin cannot be forgiven. For God will not force us to follow Him.
If you have ever wondered if you have committed the unpardonable sin, take hope in the fact that even wondering about that is an indication that you have not committed this sin.
Though everyday we fall short, if we continue to seek God and His forgiveness and His will, if we continue to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then we are safe in the blessed salvation of Christ.
