Our Scripture meditation is based on Mark 3:28-30, part of the Gospel reading for this coming week.
(Jesus said) [28] “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter, [29] but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”—[30] for they were saying, “He has an unclean spirit.”
Understanding this brief passage could make an eternal difference in someone’s life. In fact, one day it could make an eternal difference in your life.
Blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is called the “unforgiveable sin.” This is jarring for Lutherans, who strongly believe all people can be saved by God. In fact, Jesus has already earned the forgiveness of sins for the world in his death and resurrection.
It is the work of the Holy Spirit to bring people to faith in Jesus. People who fight against the Holy Spirit are trapped in unbelief. They are “blaspheming” the Holy Spirit.
This is the key point in this Scripture meditation. Blaspheming the Holy Spirit is a state, not a condition. As long one is blaspheming the Holy Spirit, the sin of unbelief is unforgivable. However, once the Holy Spirit breaks through to create saving faith, the same person is saved. Again, blaspheming the Holy Spirit is a state, not a condition.
I have had the privilege of sharing this truth a few of times with men and women who had committed the unforgiveable sin. In each case, God had swept away the unbelief and replaced it with faith in Jesus. As I shared this truth, I could almost see a terrible weight being lifted from their shoulders.
If you are convinced you have committed the unpardonable sin, take heart. Jesus has already earned your forgiveness. God the Father wants you as his own. The Holy Spirit will give you this gift of faith. If you believe, you are in a right relationship with God.
Kevin Wilson 360 