Overview
The Bible addresses unpardonable sin across 8 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Hebrews, Matthew and 2 Kings. Closely related themes include Offences Against the Holy Spirit, Reprobacy, Apostates and Backsliders.
Key Bible verses about unpardonable sin
Old Testament
New Testament
Matthew
Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
Hebrews
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying unpardonable sin for yourself
- Begin with 2 Kings 24:4, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Hebrews, Matthew and 2 Kings each treat the theme.
- Widen the study to related themes: Offences Against the Holy Spirit, Reprobacy, Apostates and Backsliders.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about unpardonable sin?
The Bible addresses unpardonable sin across 8 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Hebrews, Matthew and 2 Kings. Closely related themes include Offences Against the Holy Spirit, Reprobacy, Apostates and Backsliders.
How many Bible verses are about unpardonable sin?
The Bible references unpardonable sin in 8 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention unpardonable sin?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is 2 Kings 24:4: “And also for the innocent blood that he shed: for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the LORD would not pardon.”
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