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Matthew 12:31
Verse
Context
The Unpardonable Sin
30He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.31Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.32Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the one to come.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men--The word "blasphemy" properly signifies "detraction," or "slander." In the New Testament it is applied, as it is here, to vituperation directed against God as well as against men; and in this sense it is to be understood as an aggravated form of sin. Well, says our Lord, all sin--whether in its ordinary or its more aggravated forms--shall find forgiveness with God. Accordingly, in Mark (Mar 3:28) the language is still stronger: "All sin shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme." There is no sin whatever, it seems, of which it may be said. "That is not a pardonable sin." This glorious assurance is not to be limited by what follows; but, on the contrary, what follows is to be explained by this. but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I say unto you,.... This form of speaking is used, the more strongly to asseverate the truth of what is after said; and the rather, because men are apt to indulge a liberty with their tongues; fancying no great crime is committed, when only words are spoken, and no facts done; that every idle word that a man shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. By an "idle word" is meant, what the Jews call, , "light conversation", and , "vain discourse", as the Hebrew Gospel of Munster reads it here; frothy language, unprofitable talk, which, though it does not directly hurt God or man, yet is of no use to speaker or hearer; and yet even this, in the last general and awful judgment, if not forgiven, and repented of, must be accounted for; and much more such horrid blasphemies the Pharisees had vented against Christ, and the Spirit of Christ. The Jews (d) have a saying pretty much like this, "That even , "for any light conversation", which passes between a man and his wife, he shall "be brought to judgment".'' (d) R. Jonah apud L. Capell. in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:31 In the face of the Pharisees’ accusations of Satanic influence, Jesus had just argued that he, the Messiah, cast out demons through the power of the Holy Spirit. In this context, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit can only mean attributing the ministry and exorcisms of Jesus to Satan’s power.
Matthew 12:31
The Unpardonable Sin
30He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.31Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.32Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the one to come.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The New Year as God Sees It
By A.W. Tozer5.1K41:07New YearsJOB 23:6PSA 85:8MAT 12:31MAT 24:6ROM 11:25In this sermon, the preacher addresses the fear and uncertainty that people are experiencing in the world today. He emphasizes that despite the fear, believers should take comfort in the fact that God is always with them. The preacher shares a story about a father comforting his scared child in the dark, highlighting the presence of Jesus in our lives. He also mentions listening to news reports predicting the future, but asserts that no one can truly predict what will happen. The sermon concludes with a call to reflect on past mistakes, trust in God for a better future, and not rely on oneself.
A House Divided Cannot Stand
By Shane Idleman90353:06MAT 12:25MAT 12:31This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity in various aspects of life, including within families, churches, and relationships with God. It addresses the concept of the unpardonable sin, highlighting the need for genuine repentance and a transformed life. The urgency of responding to God's call and the distinction between struggling with sin versus embracing a sinful lifestyle are key points discussed.
Theirs Is the Kingdom of Heaven
By Stephen Kaung8481:06:15MAT 5:1MAT 6:33MAT 12:31MAT 13:1MAT 13:11MAT 24:42In this sermon, the speaker discusses the process of transformation and how it is possible for people to become like Jesus. The focus is on our response and responsibility to the grace of God. The speaker highlights the importance of meditating on the Word of God, emphasizing that it is not just a mental exercise but also a matter of the heart. The sermon then delves into the parables in Matthew 13, which illustrate the development of the kingdom of heaven on earth. The parables depict the sowing of the Word, the mixture of true and false believers in Christianity, the corruption of teachings, and the presence of hidden ones who possess the truth and experience of God. The sermon concludes by mentioning the end of the world and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom.
My Experience as a Chaplain - Part 2
By Rolfe Barnard68845:30TestimonyMAT 12:31HEB 9:22In this sermon, the speaker recounts his experience of being invited to preach at a church in Brooklyn that hadn't had evangelistic services in 25 years. The pastor and deacons were desperate for a revival, so they decided to have a protracted meeting. The speaker shares his observations about the moral decline in America, particularly in relation to the Lord's Day and the use of money. He also talks about his experience as a chaplain in the army and how he found success in sharing the gospel with young soldiers. However, he had to stop his evangelistic work due to the war effort and the influence of the Catholic regime.
The Holy Spirit Is God
By Michael Koulianos1638:56Holy SpiritThe Holy SpiritIntimacy With GodPSA 18:1ISA 11:2ZEC 4:6MAT 12:31MAT 28:19LUK 1:35JHN 14:26ROM 8:261CO 2:10JAS 3:1Michael Koulianos emphasizes the divine nature of the Holy Spirit, explaining that true fellowship with Him is essential for spiritual strength and wisdom. He illustrates this through David's love for God, which empowered him to conquer enemies, highlighting that intimacy with the Holy Spirit precedes the power of God. Koulianos stresses that the Holy Spirit is fully God, as evidenced by His role in the life of Jesus and the authority He holds. The sermon calls believers to recognize the importance of character and purity in their relationship with the Holy Spirit, as well as the necessity of worship in experiencing His presence. Ultimately, Koulianos encourages the congregation to prioritize intimacy with the Holy Spirit to unlock divine power in their lives.
The Personality of the Spirit
By G. Campbell Morgan0TrinityThe Holy SpiritMAT 12:31JHN 14:26G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the necessity of understanding the personality of the Holy Spirit and His relation to the Trinity to grasp His mission and work. He argues that the Holy Spirit is not merely an influence but a Divine Person with attributes of will, intelligence, power, and love, which are infinite in Him compared to the finite nature of humanity. Morgan addresses historical heresies that have diminished the understanding of the Spirit's personality and divinity, asserting that the Scriptures affirm the Holy Spirit's role as a distinct Person within the Godhead. He highlights the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's divine attributes and works, which are essential to the Christian faith. Ultimately, denying the personality and divinity of the Holy Spirit undermines the entire framework of revealed religion.
What It Is Not
By D.L. Moody0Sin and RedemptionThe Holy SpiritMAT 12:31JHN 16:8D.L. Moody emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit's work in revealing sin and the importance of being troubled by our sins as a sign that the Spirit is still present. He clarifies that while resisting the Spirit is common, it does not equate to the unpardonable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Moody reassures that having evil thoughts is not a sin in itself, but harboring them is. He encourages believers to fight against these thoughts and not to feel condemned for their struggles, as the desire to seek God indicates the Spirit's influence. Ultimately, the sermon highlights the hope and grace available to all who recognize their need for salvation.
Prayer - 1 Peter 5:10, 11, Part 2
By A.W. Pink0Effectual CallingGod's GraceHOS 14:4MAT 12:31JHN 17:24ROM 8:301CO 10:13EPH 2:8COL 1:122TH 2:13HEB 4:161PE 2:9A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound nature of God's grace in his sermon on 1 Peter 5:10-11, illustrating how God's effectual call brings believers from darkness into His marvelous light. He explains that this calling is rooted in God's eternal purpose and is a testament to His unchanging love and grace towards His chosen people. Pink highlights that regeneration is a result of divine predestination, and that God's grace is abundant and tailored to meet our needs, especially in times of trial. He reassures believers that their calling to eternal glory is secured through their union with Christ, and encourages them to trust in God's promises as they navigate their spiritual journey. Ultimately, Pink calls for a deeper appreciation of God's grace, which is the foundation of our hope and assurance in salvation.
The Personal Dispensation of the Holy Spirit
By Olin Alfred Curtis0MAT 12:31MAT 28:19JHN 4:24JHN 16:13ACT 13:2ROM 8:261CO 12:42CO 13:14Olin Alfred Curtis preaches about the profound experience of a heart transformed by God, singing a new song of redemption and forgiveness, reflecting on the deep love and gratitude for the salvation received. The sermon delves into the question of the personality of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit as a distinct person in the Trinity based on biblical evidence from the teachings of Jesus, the early church, and the apostle Paul. Furthermore, the sermon explores the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, highlighting the quiet yet powerful work of the Spirit in transforming individuals, emphasizing the moral quality, gentleness, and inevitableness of the Spirit's test in every person's life.
Questions/answers About the Unpardonable Sin
By James Blaine Chapman0MAT 12:31JHN 6:37HEB 4:16JAS 4:71JN 1:9James Blaine Chapman addresses concerns about unpardonable sins, emphasizing that any persistent sin may become unpardonable but reassures that God's mercy is always available for those who seek it sincerely. He clarifies that crossing the 'dead line' does not mean one is doomed to physical death or eternal damnation, but rather it is a tactic of the devil to discourage seeking God's forgiveness. Chapman encourages individuals to resist doubts, seek God with true repentance and faith, and trust in His abundant pardon and salvation.
The Holy Spirit in the Synoptic Gospels
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 1:18MAT 3:11MAT 3:16MAT 4:1MAT 12:18MAT 12:28MAT 12:31LUK 1:35LUK 11:13Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the significance of the Holy Spirit in the Synoptic Gospels, emphasizing the role of the Spirit in the birth, ministry, and baptism of Jesus Christ. The passages highlight the Holy Spirit's involvement in the incarnation of Jesus, the anointing of Jesus for His ministry, and the power of the Spirit in casting out demons. Gaebelein also addresses the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and the promise of the Father, the gift of the Holy Spirit, to believers.
Matthew 12:31, 32. He Warns Against the Unpardonable Sin.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 51:17PRO 14:12MAT 12:31LUK 15:7ROM 6:23ROM 10:91TI 1:13HEB 10:26JAS 4:171JN 1:9Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the concept of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the severity of rejecting the truth of the gospel despite being convinced of its validity. The Pharisees' deliberate malice in attributing Jesus' miracles to Satan serves as a cautionary tale against leading others astray from the faith. Mortimer highlights the danger of dying unpardoned, citing the example of an infidel who expressed regret on his deathbed for not seeking forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice.
It Shall Not Be Forgiven
By George MacDonald0MAT 6:14MAT 12:31MAT 18:21MAT 18:35LUK 12:10LUK 23:34JHN 20:23ROM 2:41JN 1:9George MacDonald preaches about the importance of forgiveness and the unpardonable sin, emphasizing the need to understand the depth of God's forgiveness and the consequences of denying the Spirit of Truth. He delves into the concept of forgiveness between a father and a son, highlighting the transformative power of repentance and the necessity of love and reconciliation. MacDonald explores the idea of the sin against the Holy Ghost as a condition of spiritual depravity that shuts out God's forgiveness, but he also offers hope for redemption and purification through divine love and mercy.
The Holy Spirit, Our Loving Friend
By John R. Rice0MAT 12:31ROM 15:30EPH 4:301TH 5:19HEB 10:29John R. Rice preaches about the importance of honoring the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need to view Him as a beloved Person equal with the Father and the Son, rather than reducing Him to mere manifestations like speaking in tongues. He highlights the love, care, and work of the Holy Spirit, including His role in dwelling within Christians, guiding them into truth, and helping them in prayer. Rice discusses the significance of the Holy Spirit's indwelling in believers, the promise of His presence, and the transformation that occurs when Christians are filled with His power for soul-winning. He also warns about sins that can grieve, quench, and insult the Holy Spirit, urging both believers and non-believers to honor and respond to His leading.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men--The word "blasphemy" properly signifies "detraction," or "slander." In the New Testament it is applied, as it is here, to vituperation directed against God as well as against men; and in this sense it is to be understood as an aggravated form of sin. Well, says our Lord, all sin--whether in its ordinary or its more aggravated forms--shall find forgiveness with God. Accordingly, in Mark (Mar 3:28) the language is still stronger: "All sin shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme." There is no sin whatever, it seems, of which it may be said. "That is not a pardonable sin." This glorious assurance is not to be limited by what follows; but, on the contrary, what follows is to be explained by this. but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I say unto you,.... This form of speaking is used, the more strongly to asseverate the truth of what is after said; and the rather, because men are apt to indulge a liberty with their tongues; fancying no great crime is committed, when only words are spoken, and no facts done; that every idle word that a man shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. By an "idle word" is meant, what the Jews call, , "light conversation", and , "vain discourse", as the Hebrew Gospel of Munster reads it here; frothy language, unprofitable talk, which, though it does not directly hurt God or man, yet is of no use to speaker or hearer; and yet even this, in the last general and awful judgment, if not forgiven, and repented of, must be accounted for; and much more such horrid blasphemies the Pharisees had vented against Christ, and the Spirit of Christ. The Jews (d) have a saying pretty much like this, "That even , "for any light conversation", which passes between a man and his wife, he shall "be brought to judgment".'' (d) R. Jonah apud L. Capell. in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:31 In the face of the Pharisees’ accusations of Satanic influence, Jesus had just argued that he, the Messiah, cast out demons through the power of the Holy Spirit. In this context, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit can only mean attributing the ministry and exorcisms of Jesus to Satan’s power.