Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Blasphemy, derived from the Greek word "blasphēmia," refers to the act of speaking sacrilegiously about God or sacred things. It involves showing contempt or lack of reverence for God, His name, or His attributes. In the biblical context, blasphemy is considered a grave sin, as it directly challenges the holiness and sovereignty of God. Old Testament Context: In the Old Testament, blasphemy is strictly prohibited and is considered a capital offense. Leviticus 24:16 states, "Whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD must surely be put to death. The whole congregation must stone him. Whether he is a foreigner or a native, if he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death." This severe punishment underscores the seriousness with which blasphemy was regarded in ancient Israelite society. The narrative of Naboth's vineyard in 1 Kings 21 illustrates the misuse of accusations of blasphemy. Jezebel orchestrates false charges of blasphemy against Naboth to seize his vineyard, highlighting the potential for abuse of this charge. New Testament Context: In the New Testament, blasphemy continues to be a significant concern. Jesus addresses the issue of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which He describes as an unforgivable sin. In Matthew 12:31-32 , Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. 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 one to come." The Apostle Paul, before his conversion, was a blasphemer, as he himself admits in 1 Timothy 1:13 : "Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief." This acknowledgment highlights the transformative power of God's grace and forgiveness. Blasphemy in the Early Church: The early Christian community faced accusations of blasphemy from Jewish authorities, as seen in the trial of Stephen. Acts 6:11 records, "Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, 'We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God.'" Stephen's defense and subsequent martyrdom underscore the tension between the nascent Christian faith and established religious authorities. Theological Implications: Blasphemy is not merely a verbal offense but reflects a heart posture that is irreverent and rebellious against God. It is a sin that reveals a deeper spiritual condition of unbelief and defiance. The Bible warns against the dangers of a hardened heart that leads to blasphemy, urging believers to maintain a posture of reverence and awe towards God. Contemporary Relevance: In contemporary Christian thought, blasphemy remains a relevant issue, particularly in discussions about freedom of speech and religious respect. While the legal and societal consequences of blasphemy have evolved, the spiritual implications remain significant. Christians are called to uphold the sanctity of God's name and to approach Him with reverence, recognizing the gravity of blasphemy as a sin against the divine. Greek 987. blasphemeo -- to slander, hence to speak lightly or profanely ... ... hence to speak lightly or profanely of sacred things NASB Word Usage be spoken of as evil (1), blaspheme (4), blasphemed (6), blasphemers (1), blasphemes (3 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/987.htm - 9k Library The Prophecy of the Perilous Times. 2 Timothy iii. 4-Jan Letter cxiii. To the Presbyters of Tarsus. The Service Common to Two or More Monks. Letter cxxv. A Transcript of the Faith as Dictated by Saint Basil ... The Apocalypse of Peter. John Chapter xxi. 12-19. The Uproar in Ephesus. Fathers and Children' On the Words of the Gospel, Luke xi. 5, "Which of You Shall have a ... Thesaurus Blasphemers (2 Occurrences)...Blasphemers (2 Occurrences). Acts 19:37 For you have brought these men here, who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of your goddess. ... /b/blasphemers.htm - 7k Unholy (23 Occurrences) Unthankful (2 Occurrences) Lovers (57 Occurrences) Goddess (6 Occurrences) Temples (17 Occurrences) Robbers (21 Occurrences) Revilers (3 Occurrences) Proud (96 Occurrences) Blasphemy (15 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that a biblical passage is descriptive rather than prescriptive? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a reviler in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Blasphemers (2 Occurrences)Acts 19:37 2 Timothy 3:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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