“The Sin That Refuses Pardon”

The Unpardonable Sin (part 1 of 2) - April 14, 1887

Ellet J. Waggoner : The Signs of the Times

“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men; but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaks a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but whosoever speaks against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.” Matthew 12.31, 32

Probably no other text in the Bible has been the subject of more speculation, or has been more misunderstood, than this one. Many honest, conscientious people have gone well-nigh into despair over the thought that they were guilty of the sin here mentioned, and that simply because they had received erroneous ideas as to what that sin is. Although there is so much misunderstanding in regard to it, we think that an understanding of it may be gained quite readily by a consideration of the connection and of parallel texts. Every word, which our Saviour uttered, was timely, and applied to the circumstances then present; it is this feature, which makes them practical in all ages. Therefore if we would get a full understanding of any of his words, we must consider the occasion, which called them out.

If we notice the context, we shall find that the words, which we have quoted, were called out by the position, which the Pharisees took concerning a notable miracle which Jesus had performed. He had healed a demoniac who was both blind and dumb, so that the man was not only in his right mind, but “both spoke and saw.” The people were amazed, but the Pharisees contemptuously and blasphemously said: “This fellow does not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.” Matthew 12.24. Instead of glorifying God, whose Spirit did this wonderful thing; they accused Christ of having a devil, by whose aid he performed miracles.

That this accusation constituted, in that instance, the unpardonable sin, is evident from the parallel text in Mark. This evangelist gives our Savior’s words concerning the unpardonable nature of the sin against the Holy Spirit, and adds, “Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.” Mark 3.30. Thus we find, without any further investigation, that this sin consists in attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to the devil.