Quick Challenge Answer: What Does It Mean To Blaspheme Against The Holy Spirit?

What Does it mean to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit?  I’ve encountered many worried Christians that believe they might have committed this sin.  Jesus said that blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is an unforgivable sin, so you can understand their concern.  So, what exactly does it mean to sin against the Holy Spirit? 

Jesus makes reference to this sin in three places in scripture (Mt 12:31, Mk 3:28-29 and Lk 12:120).  Jesus gives this rebuke directly after being accused of receiving his healing powers from Beelzebub (Satan) by some of the religious leaders present.

What was the sin being committed?  It was continued disbelief in the presence of evidence that Jesus was who he said he was.  Jesus had given the evidence of who He was.  And even with all the signs and wonders shown to them, the leaders would not believe in Him. 

The key to understanding what it means to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit is to realize that it’s not simple disbelief that is unforgivable.  I came from a place of disbelief in my life.  I think ever Christian, if they’re honest with themselves, will admit to lashing out at God in times of trial or hardship.  But these actions do not constitute an unpardonable sin.

Continued, Willful Disbelief

The idea of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is a continued, willful state of disbelief.  When we accept Jesus, it is by the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  In my case especially, I was not willing to examine the case for Christianity until the Holy Spirit worked in me.  Once I was, I realized that Christianity was true.  And if Christianity was true, then I needed to follow Jesus. 

The tragic thing is, there are people that stay away from Christianity because they believe they have already committed the unforgiveable sin.  They may have cursed God at some point.  They may feel their lifestyle disqualifies them.  And yes, they may have been told what they’ve done is unforgivable by a uniformed or ill-intentioned Christian. 

If you fall into any of the categories I listed above, let me re-assure you.  You have not committed an unforgivable sin.  The only unforgivable sin is to go to the grave rejecting the gift being offered you through the Holy Spirit.  

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