Have I Committed the Unforgivable Sin?

Here is a conversation I have on a regular basis: Reader: “Paul, I’m worried that I have committed the unforgivable sin.” Me: “You haven’t.” Reader: “But I had these terrible thoughts about the Lord…” Me: “You didn’t commit an unforgivable sin.” Reader: “I shook my fist at heaven and said these wicked things…” Me: “Still no.” Reader: “But I took the Lord’s name in vain.” Me: “The good news is he forgives you. Jesus said, ‘Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven’ (Matthew 12:32).” Reader: “But the rest of that verse says those who speak against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. I’m doomed!” Me: “Uh-huh. So you think Jesus is gracious and forgiving but the Spirit of Christ holds a grudge? What’s wrong with that picture? Relax. The Holy Spirit keeps no record of your sin (Heb 10:17).” Reader: “I still worry that I committed the unpardonable sin.” Me: “Do you love Jesus?” Reader: “Of course.” Me: “What does Jesus mean to you?” Reader: “He’s my Lord.” Me: “You could not know that except the Holy Spirit showed you. The only thing that cannot be forgiven is rejecting what the Spirit says [...]