Posted on 11/28/2013 5:54:01 AM PST by NYer
Did you actually read the article? It quotes the Bible in several places listing specific sins that send people to hell. It even quotes the Pauline epistles giving some of those lists. Do you think the Bible contradicts itself? Do you think Paul contradicts himself?
Most theologians agree that final impenitence is the real "blasphemy against the Holy Spirit".
In context, Jesus was talking to the Pharisees, who were attributing his preaching and miracles to demons. He's saying, in effect, "If you're this hardened in evil -- that you attribute my miracles to demon -- then you are so hardened in evil that you will not accept the grace of final repentance at your death, and are certain to go to hell".
The meaning of “blaspheming the Holy Spirit” has been debated. But one widely accepted interpretation is that it means a final, irrevocable decision to not accept Jesus as one’s Lord and saviour. In such a case the person dies without ever having done what is necessary for salvation, and does so of their own free will. By refusing to accept Jesus the individual willingly does not allow the Holy Spirit to reside within their heart, thus the offense agaist the Holy Spirit. Other interpretations exist but this one makes the most sense to me.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
|
1864 "Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven." There are no limits to the mercy of God, but anyone who deliberately refuses to accept his mercy by repenting, rejects the forgiveness of his sins and the salvation offered by the Holy Spirit. Such hardness of heart can lead to final impenitence and eternal loss. |
Isn’t it interesting that the only sin that cannot be forgiven is left for speculation as to what that is.
No, of course the Bible does not contradict itself. I assume you are referring to 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
While inheritance comes with salvation and is a part of salvation, an inheritance in the Kingdom of God is not all there is to salvation. You can lose your inheritance but you cannot lose your salvation.
Inheritance in the Kingdom of God is something entirely different. Your inheritance has to do with receiving rewards of gold, silver and precious stones, crowns, and authority over cities in Christ’s millennial kingdom, based upon what you do for Christ. You cannot obtain any of that inheritance if you do not first become God’s child.
The Lord chastens his children but he doesn’t take away the free gift of salvation. I’ve experience God’s chastening myself and it is not a pleasant thing. Much better to stay on the straight and narrow to begin with.
As with the fornicator in the church of Corinth.
To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. 1 Corinthians 5:5
I'm fully aware of many of the great evils committed throughout history. I do not lay the blame for the death camps or any of the other countless evils at the feet of God. And when I was speaking of a just God, I was speaking of the final account we will all give.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.