What Is the Unpardonable Sin? – Bible Study Lesson from Matthew
You’ve heard the statement I’m sure. But, have you ever wondered what the unpardonable sin is? It’s one of the most common questions people ask when they start digging deeper into their faith.
In this Bible reading from Matthew 12:15–37, we see large crowds following Jesus after witnessing His miraculous healings. But among the miracles, Jesus also shares a serious warning—about a sin that will not be forgiven. This message might seem unsettling at first, but when we break it down, it reveals something deeply important about the heart of our faith.
Let’s see what Jesus said and explore what the unpardonable sin really means—without fear or confusion.
Jesus Explains the Unpardonable Sin
Here’s what Jesus said in Matthew:
“Therefore I say to you, any sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven people, but blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven.
Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.”
— Matthew 12:31–32 NASB
This passage is often called one of the “hard sayings” of Jesus. But what does blasphemy against the Holy Spirit really mean?
Words Reveal the Heart
Jesus goes on to explain how our words reflect our inner character:
“For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.
The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil.”
— Matthew 12:34–35 NASB
He’s not just talking about slipping up or saying the wrong thing. He’s explaining how our speech flows from our beliefs—and how our beliefs shape our choices.
Not Everyone in the Crowd Was a Believer
We sometimes assume that everyone who followed Jesus was a believer. But the crowds were a mix of people:
- Some genuinely sought healing and truth.
- Others followed out of curiosity.
- And still others—like the Pharisees—were there to criticize, question, and try to trap Jesus.
Jesus addressed them all, but especially warned those who knowingly rejected the work of the Holy Spirit while attributing it to evil.
What Is the Unpardonable Sin?
So what exactly is the unpardonable sin?
Jesus tells us clearly in verses 30–32: speaking against the Holy Spirit—attributing His work to Satan, rejecting His truth, and closing the door on God’s grace.
Let’s break it down even further.
We Can’t Sit on the Fence
Jesus made this point strongly:
“The one who is not with Me is against Me; and the one who does not gather with Me scatters.”
— Matthew 12:30 NASB
This isn’t about slipping up or doubting sometimes. It’s about choosing a side. In the battle between good and evil, Jesus makes it clear—we can’t remain neutral. There’s no such thing as being “kind of with Him.”
We either:
- Follow Jesus and work alongside Him, or
- Reject Him, whether actively or passively.
Why Is This Sin Unforgivable?
Let’s look at this question spiritually.
The unpardonable sin isn’t an accident or a mistake. It’s a deliberate, ongoing rejection of God’s Spirit, even after seeing the truth.
When someone refuses to recognize the work of the Holy Spirit and continues down that path, they shut themselves off from the only One who can forgive. It’s not that God doesn’t want to forgive—it’s that they no longer want forgiveness.
What Others Say About It
Even Wikipedia™ explains it this way:
“The Eternal Sin, or unpardonable sin, is a concept in Christian theology of a sin which cannot or will not be forgiven, whereby salvation becomes impossible… deliberately refusing to distinguish between good and evil makes repentance impossible.”
In simpler terms: the unpardonable sin is the total rejection of God and the refusal to respond to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
So, Where Do We Stand?
This lesson isn’t meant to scare—it’s meant to wake us up.
The world is full of distractions, confusion, and spiritual warfare. But this truth remains: we all must choose where we stand.
So, will we follow Jesus, or will we turn away from Him?
This is not a game or a spectator sport. It’s the most important decision we’ll ever make.
Are We Guilty?
You may be asking yourself, “Have I committed the unpardonable sin?”
Here’s some reassurance: If you’re worried about it, that’s a strong sign you haven’t. That concern shows your heart is still open to God. The unforgivable sin involves a hardened heart that no longer seeks Him.
Let’s pray for clarity, courage, and commitment—and encourage one another when doubt creeps in.
Love In Christ
– Bob
If you would like to discover how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to look at John 3:16 to find more information.
Have thoughts about this passage? Share them in the comments or check out more study topics here.