Topical Encyclopedia A blasphemer, according to biblical understanding, is an individual who speaks or acts in a manner that shows irreverence or disrespect toward God, His name, His attributes, or His works. The concept of blasphemy is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where it is considered a grave sin against the holiness and majesty of God.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, blasphemy is explicitly condemned and is associated with severe consequences. The Mosaic Law prescribes the death penalty for those who blaspheme the name of the LORD. 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 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 for personal gain. Jezebel orchestrates false charges of blasphemy against Naboth to seize his property, highlighting the potential for abuse of this serious charge. New Testament Context In the New Testament, blasphemy continues to be a significant concern. Jesus Himself was accused of blasphemy by the religious leaders of His time. In Mark 2:7, the scribes question, "Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" This accusation arises from Jesus' claim to divine authority, which the religious leaders perceived as a direct affront to God's unique prerogatives. The Apostle Paul, before his conversion, was a blasphemer, as he 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, even for those who have committed the sin of blasphemy. Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit A particularly serious form of blasphemy mentioned in the New Testament is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus warns in Matthew 12:31-32, "And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but 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 age to come." This sin is often understood as a persistent and unrepentant resistance to the work and conviction of the Holy Spirit. Theological Implications Blasphemy, in its essence, is a violation of the Third Commandment, which instructs, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain" (Exodus 20:7). It reflects a heart attitude that fails to honor God as holy and sovereign. The biblical injunctions against blasphemy serve as a reminder of the reverence due to God and the seriousness with which His name and character are to be treated. Practical Considerations In contemporary Christian thought, blasphemy is not only limited to verbal expressions but can also encompass actions and attitudes that diminish the glory and honor of God. Believers are called to guard their speech and conduct, ensuring that they reflect the holiness and reverence due to God. Ephesians 4:29 advises, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." The concept of blasphemy challenges Christians to examine their lives and ensure that their words and actions align with the reverence and honor that God deserves. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who blasphemes.Greek 989. blasphemos -- slanderous, evil-speaking ... of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: blasphemos Phonetic Spelling: (blas'-fay-mos) Short Definition: slanderous Definition: slanderous; subst: a blasphemer. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/989.htm - 7k Library Blasphemer, or --Who? 1 Timothy i. 14-Dec Whether the Sin of Blasphemy is the Greatest Sin? But Infirmity Pleadeth Its Part, and with Favor of the Crowds ... Psalm CI. The Prodigal's Return The Martyrdom of Stephen. 1 Timothy i. 15, 16 Psalm CIII. Grace Triumphant Thesaurus Blasphemer (2 Occurrences)... (n.) One who blasphemes. Multi-Version Concordance Blasphemer (2 Occurrences). 1 Timothy 1:13 although I was before a blasphemer, a persecutor, and insolent. ... /b/blasphemer.htm - 7k Blasphemed (28 Occurrences) Stephen (13 Occurrences) Unbelief (16 Occurrences) Outrage (3 Occurrences) Overbearing (7 Occurrences) Ignorantly (8 Occurrences) Insolent (16 Occurrences) Injurious (8 Occurrences) Ignorant (32 Occurrences) Resources What is blasphemy? What does it mean to blaspheme? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a reviler in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who can be saved? | GotQuestions.org Blasphemer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Blasphemer (2 Occurrences)1 Timothy 1:13 Leviticus 24:23 Subtopics Related Terms |
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