Among the most hotly contested and misinterpreted subjects in Christian theology is the idea of the “unpardonable sin,” often known as “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.” The Bible notes it in Matthew 12:31–32, Mark 3:28–29, and Luke 12:10. Here is a definition of the unpardonable sin, a discussion of whether a Christian may commit it, and some implications for Christians:
What is the unpardonable sin?
Jesus declares 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 whomever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven; but, whoever talks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven in this generation or next.
Context: Jesus was responding to the Pharisees—who had seen His miracles but credited Satan instead of the Holy Spirit—by speaking these words (Matthew 12:24).
Definition: The unpardonable sin is the deliberate, persistent, and willful rejection of the work of the Holy Spirit, particularly attributing the work of God to Satan. It reflects a hardened heart that refuses to acknowledge God’s truth and grace.
Can a Christian commit the unpardonable sin?
The quick response is a Big NO; because a Christian cannot commit the unpardonable sin. These are the reasons:
1. A Christian’s Relationship with the Holy Spirit: Christians have the Holy Spirit In dwelling in them, (1 Corinthians 6:19). The simple fact that the Holy Spirit lives inside a believer indicates their relationship with God and their redemption.
– A real Christian would not constantly and knowingly ignore the Holy Spirit’s work because their heart has been changed during the salvation experience by God’s grace.
2. Character of the Unpardonable Sin: The unpardonable sin is not a one-time error or a doubt flash-through. It is a lifetime of hardy denial of God’s truth and grace.
– A Christian can face sin, worry, or fear, but these issues are not the same as the unpardonable sin. The Holy Spirit helps Christians by showing them right from wrong, guiding them, and helping them recover when they make mistakes (John 16:8; 1 John 1:9).
3. Assurance of Salvation
The Bible guarantees Christians that nothing can separate them from the love of God (Romans 8:38–39). Genuine anxiety about having committed the unpardonable sin is sure indication that one has not done it as their heart is still receptive to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
For those not Christians, what does the unpardonable sin mean?
For non-believers, the unpardonable sin functions as a severe warning:
It emphasizes the need to respond to the conviction of the Holy Spirit as the gospel is being spread through different platforms and embracing Christ’s gift of salvation as well as the risk of constantly rejecting God’s truth and grace.
Typical Errors Regarding the Unpardonable Sin
1. Some believe that a specific sin—such as blasphemy, adultery, or murder—is not pardonable. The Bible holds, however, that all sins may be atoned for by faith in Christ and confession (1 John 1:9; Acts 3:19).
2. The unpardonable sin is not something one commits because one exhibited uncertainty, doubt or fear. Sometimes the disciples questioned the actions of Jesus Christ as well (Matthew 14:31; John 20:24–29).
3. The unpardonable sin is a lifetime rejection of God’s truth rather than a one time action.
Conclusion
A major warning against the continuous and deliberate rejection of the activity of the Holy Spirit is the unpardonable sin. A real Christian, however, cannot indulge in this sin as they have already embraced the work of the Holy Spirit into their life. Should you be worried about having committed the unpardonable sin, be rest assured that your own worry is proof of the activity of the Holy Spirit in your heart. Count on God’s promise of pardon and atonement through Jesus Christ.
