Topical Encyclopedia Blasphemy, a grave sin in biblical theology, is the act of showing contempt or lack of reverence for God. It is often associated with folly and pride, as these traits lead individuals to elevate themselves above divine authority, resulting in irreverent speech or actions against the sacred.Biblical Definition and Context Blasphemy is explicitly condemned in Scripture as a violation of the holiness and majesty of God. In the Old Testament, the seriousness of blasphemy is underscored by its inclusion in the Mosaic Law, where it is punishable by death: "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" (Leviticus 24:16). Connection with Folly Folly, characterized by a lack of wisdom and understanding, often leads to blasphemous behavior. The fool, in biblical terms, is one who disregards God and His commandments. Proverbs 10:18 states, "He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool." The fool's rejection of divine wisdom results in speech and actions that dishonor God, as seen in Psalm 14:1 : "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt; their acts are vile. There is no one who does good." Connection with Pride Pride, the elevation of oneself above others and even above God, is another root of blasphemy. It leads individuals to challenge God's authority and question His sovereignty. The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in the Book of Daniel illustrates this connection. In his pride, Nebuchadnezzar boasted of his own power and glory, only to be humbled by God: "The words were still in the king’s mouth when a voice came from heaven: 'It is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar, that your kingdom has been removed from you'" (Daniel 4:31). His blasphemous pride resulted in a period of madness until he acknowledged God's supremacy. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, blasphemy continues to be a serious offense. Jesus warns against blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, describing it as an unforgivable sin: "Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven all sins and all the blasphemies they utter. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of eternal sin" (Mark 3:28-29). This warning highlights the gravity of attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to evil, a sin rooted in prideful rejection of God's truth. Examples and Warnings The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently warns against blasphemy and its connection to pride and folly. In 1 Timothy 1:20 , he mentions Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom he "handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme." Their actions, likely stemming from prideful false teaching, serve as a cautionary example of the dangers of blasphemy. Conclusion Blasphemy, deeply intertwined with folly and pride, is a sin that reflects a heart turned away from God. It is a reminder of the importance of humility and reverence in the believer's relationship with the divine. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 19:22Whom have you reproached and blasphemed? and against whom have you exalted your voice, and lifted up your eyes on high? even against the Holy One of Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 74:18 Library Voluntary Suffering To the Disciples - Two Events and their Moral. 1 Corinthians xiv, 20 The Bible and the French Revolution. The Bible and the French Revolution But Whilst the King Has not that Most Blessed Light... The Dawn of Mind The Uproar in Ephesus. Index of Subjects. The Case of Reason Impartially Considered 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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