Exegetical Procedures for Interpreting "The Unpardonable Sin"

SPECIAL TOPIC: Exegetical Procedures for Interpreting "The Unpardonable Sin"

A. Remember that the Gospels reflect a Jewish setting

1. Two kinds of sins (cf. Lev. 4:2,22,27; 5:15,17-19; Num. 15:27-31; Deut. 1:43; 17:12-13)

a. unintentional

b. intentional

2. Pre-Pentecostal Jewish setting (i.e., the fulfillment of the gospel and the Spirit have not yet been manifested)

B. Note the literary context of Mark 3:22-30

1. The unbelief of Jesus' own family (cf. 3:31-32)

2. The unbelief of the Pharisees (cf. 2:24; 3:1,6,22)

C. Compare parallels where the title "Son of Man" changes to "sons of men"

1. Matt. 12:22-37 (i.e., 12:32, "a word against the Son of Man")

2. Luke 11:14-26; 12:8-12 (i.e., 12:10, "a word against the Son of Man")

3. Mark 3:28 (i.e., "All sins shall be forgiven the sons of men")