I learned of the unforgivable sin while in theology school. Hearing about it for the first time sparked curiosity in me because Jesus, as portrayed in the Bible, is forgiving as long as one repents; how then can he not forgive this one sin? Does that mean you will go to hell if you commit this sin? I researched extensively to understand the unforgivable sin and the eternal destination of those who have committed it. I visited nearby churches and held discussions with various theology professors to get their input. Last week, a church member approached me and asked if one could go to heaven after committing blasphemy. He told me he feared he might have committed this sin and wanted to know the consequences. Being well-informed about the unforgivable sin, I answered his question satisfactorily. So, can you go to heaven if you commit the unforgivable sin?
Jesus notes in Mark 3:28-29 that the unforgivable sin is eternal and cannot be forgiven in this age or ages to come. However, there is hope for those who have committed this sin. God is a merciful God, and if you go to him with a broken spirit and a heart full of repentance, he will not despise that (Psalms 51:17). Therefore, you will only go to hell if you die in a state of unrepentance. However, if you repent, there is hope for forgiveness.
So, join me as I discuss whether one can go to heaven after committing the unforgivable sin. I will talk about whether the unforgivable sin can be forgiven, what happens when one commits this sin, and how you can know when you commit it. Keep reading to learn more.
Can the unforgivable sin be forgiven?
In Mark 3:28-29, Jesus is clear that all other sins can be forgiven but not blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus notes that this sin is eternal. However, God’s nature throughout the Bible is merciful and gracious. Furthermore, Apostle Peter’s life, as recorded in the scriptures, shows us that the unforgivable sin can be forgiven. Peter, in the book of Mark 14:71, denied Jesus Christ. But he repented, and he was forgiven totally. The scripture in the book of 2 Peter 3:9 notes that God is patient and does not want anyone to perish but all of us to come to repentance.
What happens if you commit the unforgivable sin?
There is hope if you are afraid that you have already committed the unforgivable sin. What God despises is a heart that is in a state of hardness, but a contrite heart and broken spirit, God cannot despise (Psalms 51:17). Therefore, if you have committed this sin, come before God with a humble heart full of repentance, and he will not despise you, He will hear and forgive you. The scripture tells us not to be like Esau, who found no place in repentance (Hebrews 12:17). It is key to note that the Bible does not say that Esau was denied forgiveness, but he did not repent. Therefore, if you have committed this sin, there is hope of forgiveness.
How do you know you have committed blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?
Many Christians are cautious and always worried about the possibility of committing the unforgivable sin blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. To know if you have committed this sin is understanding what it is. Blaspheming the Holy Spirit is simply rejecting Jesus. This is what the teachers of the law did, which led to Jesus making it clear that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit cannot be forgiven.
In Mark 3:20-29, Jesus’ family accused him of being out of his mind. The teachers of the law went father and said that he was possessed by the prince of demons, Beelzebub. Knowing that Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit, he questioned how Satan could drive out Satan. Jesus then told them that all other sins could be forgiven, but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit was a forever sin. Therefore, this sin is just like insulting the Holy Spirit and rejecting Christ.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
