What is the Unforgivable Sin

The question is often asked: "What is the Unforgivable Sin?" Many people worry that they have committed the unforgivable sin. So what is the unforgivable sin?

What is the Unforgivable Sin?

The unforgivable sin is referred to in Matthew 12:31-32. We see that the Pharisees attributed to Satan the power of the Holy Spirit working through Jesus' ministry on earth. In other words, the Pharisees claimed the miracles performed by Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit was not the work of God but the work of Satan (Matthew 12:24).

Jesus said, "Whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit [in this way], it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come" (Matthew 12:32b).

So what is the unforgivable sin? The unforgivable sin is attributing the miracles of Jesus, which were done in the power of the Holy Spirit, to Satan.

Many commentators suggest that this specific sin cannot be reproduced today for it requires Jesus' physical presence on earth with His performing miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The unforgivable sin is not the same as unbelief.

A person can reject the Savior for years, then repent, believe and be saved. However, if he continues to reject the Savior and dies in his sins, he remains unforgiven (John 3:16-18).

The unforgivable sin is not the same as backsliding.

A Christian may wander away from the things of God and yet be restored to fellowship with God and His people (1 John 1:9).