Topical Encyclopedia Blasphemy, in biblical terms, refers to the act of showing contempt or lack of reverence for God. It is considered a grave sin, often punishable by death under Mosaic Law (Leviticus 24:16). In the New Testament, the charge of blasphemy becomes a pivotal accusation against Jesus Christ, leading to His crucifixion.Accusations of Blasphemy The charge of blasphemy against Jesus is primarily rooted in His claims of divinity and His authority to forgive sins. The religious leaders of the time, particularly the Pharisees and the Sanhedrin, viewed these claims as direct affronts to the monotheistic faith of Israel. 1. Claim to Forgive Sins: One of the earliest instances of this charge occurs when Jesus forgives the sins of a paralytic. In Mark 2:5-7 , Jesus says, "Son, your sins are forgiven." The scribes present question, "Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" Here, Jesus' authority to forgive sins is perceived as a usurpation of divine prerogative, thus constituting blasphemy in the eyes of the religious leaders. 2. Claim to Divine Sonship: In John 10:30-33 , Jesus declares, "I and the Father are one." The Jews respond by picking up stones to stone Him, stating, "We are not stoning You for any good work, but for blasphemy, because You, who are a man, declare Yourself to be God." This assertion of unity with the Father is seen as a blasphemous claim to equality with God. 3. Trial Before the Sanhedrin: The most significant charge of blasphemy occurs during Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin. In Matthew 26:63-65 , the high priest demands, "Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God." Jesus affirms, "You have said it yourself... But I say to all of you, from now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven." The high priest tears his robes and declares, "He has blasphemed! Why do we need any more witnesses?" This declaration seals the charge of blasphemy, leading to the decision to seek His death. Context and Implications The charge of blasphemy against Christ is deeply intertwined with the religious and cultural context of first-century Judea. The Jewish leaders were zealous in their protection of the monotheistic faith and the sanctity of God's name. Jesus' claims, therefore, were not merely theological assertions but were perceived as radical challenges to the established religious order. From a theological perspective, the charge of blasphemy highlights the profound misunderstanding of Jesus' identity and mission. While the religious leaders saw His claims as blasphemous, the Gospels present them as revelations of His true nature as the Son of God. The irony of the charge is that, in accusing Jesus of blasphemy, the leaders were, in fact, rejecting the very God they sought to defend. Conclusion The charge of blasphemy against Christ is a central theme in the Passion narratives, underscoring the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities. It serves as a catalyst for the events leading to the crucifixion, reflecting both the fulfillment of divine prophecy and the tragic rejection of the Messiah by His own people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 9:2,3And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said to the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; your sins be forgiven you. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 26:64,65 John 10:33,36 Library Jesus Charged with Blasphemy The Pharisees Accuse Christ of Sabbath-Breaking and Blasphemy. ... The Origin of Evil The Origin of Evil. Christ the Son of God. The Mind which was in Christ Jesus. Rev. George Wood. The Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff. Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas Pricked in their Heart Allegation 3 "The Predestination of the Stoics, and the Fatalism ... Resources Do Christians believe in three gods? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the World Mission Society Church of God, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God? | GotQuestions.org Blasphemy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Blasphemy Against the Holy Ghost Blasphemy of the Israelites, in Complaining Against God Blasphemy: Against the Holy Spirit, Unpardonable Blasphemy: Backslidden Ephesians Blasphemy: Charged Upon Christ Blasphemy: Charged Upon Saints Blasphemy: Christ Assailed With Blasphemy: Connected With Folly and Pride Blasphemy: False Indictments for of Naboth Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Jesus Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Jesus Falsely Accused of, Previously to his Trial Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Stephen Blasphemy: General Scriptures Concerning Blasphemy: Gives No Occasion For Blasphemy: Hypocrisy Counted As Blasphemy: Idolatry Counted As Blasphemy: Infidels, Who Used the Adultery of David As an Occasion to Blaspheme Blasphemy: Job's Wife, when She Exhorted Job to Curse God and Die Blasphemy: Peter, when Accused of Being a Disciple of Jesus Blasphemy: Proceeds from the Heart Blasphemy: Rabshakeh, in the Siege of Jerusalem Blasphemy: Saints Grieved to Hear Blasphemy: Shimei, in his Malice Toward David Blasphemy: The Depraved Son of Shelomith, Who, in an Altercation With an Israelite, Cursed God Blasphemy: The Revilers of Jesus, when he Was Crucified Blasphemy: The Wicked Addicted To Related Terms |
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