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Blasphemy: Defiant Irreverence Toward God

Blasphemy involves speaking contemptuously of God or showing defiant irreverence toward His name, character, or divine works. It reflects a heart that resists divine authority and misuses sacred things.

Definition and Biblical Examples

To blaspheme is to speak with contempt about God or to be defiantly irreverent toward His name, character, work, or attributes. It includes cursing God, degrading sacred things through slander, reviling those who act in His name, or claiming divine authority for oneself. Jesus was accused of blasphemy by religious leaders who refused to acknowledge His divine identity (Lk 5:21; Jn 10:33).

Our tongue is to bless God, not insult Him

The Bible warns, “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name” (Ex 20:7). Deliberate disobedience and deception are also forms of blasphemy, as seen in the case of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:1–10).

Historical and Personal Blasphemy

Saul, before his conversion and name change to Paul, was a blasphemer who persecuted Christians and forced them to renounce their faith (Acts 26:11;1 Tim 1:13). The prophets also rebuked Israel, declaring, “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you” (Isa 52:5; Ezek 36:22; Rom 2:24), showing how sinful behavior dishonors God’s reputation.

The Unforgivable Sin

Jesus taught that all sins and blasphemies will be forgiven, except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit—specifically, attributing the works of Christ to Satan (Mt 12:22–32; Mk 3:22–30). This sin stems from hardened unbelief and a deliberate rejection of divine truth. Ultimately, the only sin God cannot forgive is persistent unbelief—the refusal to turn to Him for mercy.

Reflection and Application:
  • Guard your speech: Use words that honor God, not degrade what is holy.
  • Examine your heart: Are there areas where you resist God’s authority or truth?
  • Repent of irreverence: Confess any casual or defiant attitudes toward sacred things.
  • Proclaim His name: Live in a way that upholds God’s character before others.

See also: Holy Spirit, profanity, unforgivable sin.