Blasphemy
In today’s Gospel, Luke 12:8-12, Jesus solemnly warns, “Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.” Blasphemy, or speaking disrespectfully about God, constitutes a grave offense. Blasphemy encompasses verbal or written rebukes of God’s name, character, work or attributes, as well as irreverence toward sacred objects or places.
In the Old Testament, blasphemy was punishable by death (Leviticus 24:10-16). The New Testament reaffirms its severity. Paul, in 1 Timothy 1:20, highlights the blasphemous nature of promoting false doctrine and leading believers astray.
The unpardonable nature of this sin stems from rejecting Jesus, the sole source of pardon (John 3:16). Those obstinately closed to forgiveness and the Holy Spirit’s gift cannot receive salvation. You cannot receive the grace you have renounced.
Jesus cautions, “He who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God” (Luke 12:9). Similarly, John 3:36 warns, “Whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.”
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, through your Word, increase our faith. Show mercy on moments we blasphemed and denied your saving power. We trust in your pardon through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
