The concept of the unforgivable sin comes from the words of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel according to Matthew, it is stated: “Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. And 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.” (Matthew 12:31-32, ESV)

This passage refers to the sin of attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to the devil, demonstrating a heart hardened against God and His works. It’s a state of persistent unbelief and rejection of God’s grace. The unforgivable nature of this sin lies not in the inadequacy of Christ’s sacrifice but in the rejection of the Spirit’s witness to Christ and refusal to repent. Therefore, it’s a deliberate, ongoing resistance to the truth of the gospel, beyond the reach of divine forgiveness because it rejects the very means by which forgiveness is granted.

To avoid committing the unforgivable sin, one must cultivate a heart open to the guidance and conviction of the Holy Spirit. The essence of this sin is the persistent and knowing rejection of the Holy Spirit’s testimony about Jesus Christ and His work of salvation. Therefore, embracing faith in Christ, seeking repentance, and remaining sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading are key steps in avoiding this state of hard-heartedness.

1. Embrace Faith in Jesus Christ: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, ESV) Faith in Jesus is the foundation of a relationship with God.
2. Seek Repentance: Repentance is turning away from sin and turning towards God. “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,” (Acts 3:19, ESV) shows the importance of repentance in the Christian life.
3. Remain Sensitive to the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, and transforms believers. “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,” (John 14:16, ESV) illustrates the promise of the Holy Spirit to believers.
4. Cultivate a Relationship with God: Through prayer, reading the Scripture, and fellowship with other believers, one can grow in understanding and intimacy with God. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you…” (James 4:8, ESV).
5. Heed the Holy Spirit’s Conviction: The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). Responding to this conviction with repentance and faith ensures that one does not become hardened and resistant to God’s voice.
6. Avoid Blasphemy and Speak Respectfully of God’s Work: Recognize and honor the work of the Holy Spirit, attributing to God the glory due His name and works. “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus…let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith…” (Hebrews 10:19, 22, ESV).

In summary, maintaining a humble, repentant, and faith-filled heart towards God and His works, and continually seeking to grow in your relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, keeps one from the path that leads to the unforgivable sin.