Blasphemous Accusation by the Teachers of the Law and Pharisees

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1. Part of the text today includes a quote from Jesus, “whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.” I’ve heard this verse preached in the context of forgiveness, sometimes part of sermons on The Lord’s Prayer, with emphasis on “the unforgivable sin.” This morning, however, I’m reading this in context of the discussion with the Pharisees (well, not much discussion is happening…Jesus is making a very strong statement).

   With this in mind, Jesus’ words about blaspheming against the Holy Spirit needs to be reviewed. How can someone blaspheme the Holy Spirit? I believe the answer is this: attribute the miracles of Jesus to Satan. Such an accusation is beyond reasoning, so Jesus provides a parable to help us appreciate the absurdity of their statement. Some heard, some ignored, but Jesus is clear in this teaching that ignorance is no longer acceptable. Here he is in the flesh speaking to the Jewish leaders (and his extended family). We now see what was foretold. If we hold to the position that the miracles performed by Jesus are that of Beelzebul, we will be sinning against the Holy Spirit and the penalty for such sin is eternal separation from God–the true hell.

   Jesus accepts that some will not accept his work on earth, he forgives them in advance, but not for blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Soon he will send “the helper” for everyone who accepts Christ as Lord and Savior. The Holy Spirit comes for us all. Jesus in human flesh cannot appear to everyone individually, his teaching is limited to those who actually get to see him. But the Holy Spirit has no such limitations.

   We live in a time when people seek excuses, we rationalize constantly. Actually, this is not much different than a few thousand years ago. We read stories of people ignoring the truth that was plainly in front of them. The test of time is a difficult master. Truth will ultimately be revealed. One of the founding principles my parents taught me was this: a lie will always be discovered, it just might take some time. Speak the truth. It’s so much easier.

   Jesus emphasizes the need to take care of what we say for it truly shows our heart and our real intentions. These verses penetrate my current thoughts and make me long for forgiveness:

   But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

   Everyone: all people, no exceptions, no excuses. We all are accountable for the hollow words, the injurious things we say. Lord, help us to speak words that honor you, help us to quickly repent.

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