Matthew 12:32 Meaning and Explanation
“And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A word against the Son of man may be forgiven, but speaking against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven in this age or the next.
What Does Matthew 12:32 Mean?
Jesus draws a distinction. A word spoken against him, the Son of man, can be forgiven, for a person may misjudge him in ignorance and later come to faith. But to speak against the Holy Spirit, deliberately attributing his work to evil, is to refuse the very grace that brings forgiveness, and so it remains unforgiven in this age and the age to come.
The contrast underscores how serious it is to harden oneself against the Spirit. One may stumble over Jesus and yet be brought to repentance; but the heart that knowingly calls God's light darkness shuts the door against its own healing. The mention of the world to come shows that God's reckoning reaches beyond this life. The mercy of God is boundless toward all who will receive it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 12:32
What does Matthew 12:32 mean?
A word against the Son of man may be forgiven, but speaking against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven in this age or the next.