Unforgivable

Is there anything we can do that God won't forgive?

'Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin' for they had said, 'He has an unclean spirit.' - Mark 3:28-30

I'd like to think that there is nothing I can do that is beyond God's forgiveness, but this passage says something different.  If I blaspheme (swear, curse, Speak fervently against) the Holy Spirit, Jesus tells us that is unforgivable.

That's a scary thought, but what does it mean?

Several commentaries I read take the view that this does not refer to Christians, stating that Christians by their faith and belief cannot commit an unforgivable sin.

Well, that seems like a good reason to become a Christian, but that interpretation is not universal.

Another view puts all people in jeopardy of being denied the forgiveness that is offered to all by God's grace.

This could pose a dilemma for those of us who were raised in the fear of God's punishment, thinking he is always watching and waiting for us to screw up so he can cut us a one way ticket to hell.

I don't want to go back to that way of thinking.

So, what will keep me from accidentally falling into the trap of doing something that pulls me away from God for ever?

For one thing, I don't think one can blaspheme the Spirit accidentally, so we should be able to find some comfort in that.  This is a deliberate form of behavior, one that is intended to anger and hurt God.

One comment I read claims that those who accept Christ as savior and then turn against him have committed an unforgivable sin.  Now, if that sounds strange to you, it does to me as well.

Some claim that what it boils down to is apostasy, or the turning away and rejecting of one's faith, Christian, or otherwise.

Don't we all find ourselves on this path at some point in our lives?

So, it is confusing to say the least.  There is obviously something we can do that is heinous and unforgivable, but what is it?

What if it is all about love?  This is the heart of Jesus' message and it may apply here.

If we are living in a state where we accept the guidance of the Holy Spirit, which is offered freely to us, we are one with Christ and each other.  The Spirit lives within us, and so when we come together as a group, we are bringing the Spirit together as well.

So, if I truly believe that the Spirit is alive in you, what am I doing when I curse or harm you?

Hmm.

I think I just made it even harder to avoid.  But there is a way out.  I can ask your forgiveness.  What do you think?  Will you offer it if I truly seek to reconcile with you?


More to come...



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