Wednesday 8 October 2025
Whoever 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 age to come. (v. 32)
Background
This is another occasion where Jesus is having to explain his actions and the Pharisees (who made sure that everyone followed the laws of Judaism) were very keen to catch Jesus out. They were looking for ways to accuse him of blasphemy against their laws. But again, Jesus turns things around….
Exorcisms were common, as people in Jesus’ time generally attributed all illnesses to demonic influences. This was different as it wasn’t an illness. The man Jesus healed was both blind and deaf and the crowds were amazed at what they witnessed. They asked themselves: is this the Son of David (the long-expected saviour who was to come)? How could he cast out demons? Is he in league with Beelzebul (Satan)?
Jesus had three replies for them. First, if he was in league with Satan, then Satan’s kingdom was divided, as it couldn’t stand against the power of Jesus (verses 25-26).
Secondly, if Jesus was casting out demons in the name of Satan, then who did their exorcists work for, as they were coming across the same illnesses time and again, whereas they could see for themselves what Jesus could do in the power of the Holy Spirit (verses 27-28).
Thirdly, Jesus refers to himself as like a burglar tying up a strong man so that he can steal from his house. It shows that Satan is powerless against Jesus.
In verse 32 he says sin against himself, the human messenger of God is serious but forgivable, whereas a sin against God’s divine messenger, the Holy Spirit is unforgivable – now and for all time.
To Ponder:
- When can you recall that the work of the Holy Spirit was dismissed or overlooked in your life and why did this happen?
- In what ways have you been amazed by having Jesus in your life? Or, would you like to explore how to become a follower of Jesus? You may find ‘A Methodist Way of Life’ helpful: A Methodist Way of Life - The Methodist Church
Prayer
Holy Lord, help us to trust in you, to be open to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and to come closer to knowing you more personally day by day. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Ann Fox
The Revd Fox is Superintendent Minister of Tadcaster Circuit. She is called to serve alongside others and enjoys caring for older people and receiving inspiration from children and young people. She has recently enjoyed being with a group of young people from her circuit at 3Generate, the Methodist event for young people aged 4–18 years.