New Testament
Luke 12:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus highlights the seriousness of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit compared to speaking against Him.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.
And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus highlights the seriousness of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit compared to speaking against Him. While people can be forgiven for criticizing or rejecting Jesus, the unforgivable sin is to willfully reject the work and influence of the Holy Spirit. This indicates a hardened heart that refuses to accept God's truth and grace. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding individuals toward repentance and faith. Therefore, rejecting the Spirit's work is seen as a rejection of God's ultimate offer of forgiveness and salvation. This verse serves as a warning about the dangers of dismissing the Holy Spirit's promptings and the importance of being open to God's leading in our lives. It emphasizes the need for humility and receptiveness to God's voice, as well as the gravity of our choices regarding faith and belief.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 12:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of how we respond to the Holy Spirit's guidance. We should remain open to God's leading and avoid hardening our hearts. Regular prayer and reflection can help us stay attuned to the Spirit's voice and ensure we are receptive to God's forgiveness and grace.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:10 mean?
Luke 12:10 explains that while speaking against Jesus can be forgiven, blaspheming the Holy Spirit is unforgivable. This highlights the importance of recognizing and accepting the Holy Spirit's role in guiding us toward repentance and faith.
What is the meaning of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit in Luke 12:10?
Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit refers to the willful rejection of the Holy Spirit's work and influence in a person's life. It signifies a hardened heart that refuses to accept God's truth and grace, leading to a state where forgiveness is not possible.
How can I avoid blaspheming the Holy Spirit according to Luke 12:10?
To avoid blaspheming the Holy Spirit, stay receptive to God's guidance and avoid hardening your heart. Regular prayer and reflection can help you remain attuned to the Spirit's voice and open to God's forgiveness.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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