NOTES for Mar 3:28-29

It is worth paying attention to these words of Christ: "will be forgiven all sins and blasphemies." We know what our sins are. What, this too will be forgiven? Yes, it will, because Jesus says so, and His word is faithful.

And what, just like that, without any conditions? Almost. Because we still have to accept this forgiveness, since all our relations with God have two sides: His and ours. His side is accomplished according to His promise, thanks to Christ's atoning sacrifice, but ours... Jesus says that in order for us to be forgiven, we too need to forgive. That is, we must agree that forgiveness is precisely the most right path in resolving conflicts, in restoring broken relationships. Forgiveness is mercy, the beginning of love. Therefore by our consent we acknowledge the supreme rule of love and accept that God is love. Refusal of this path means rejection of love, and accordingly rejection of God's love. This is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit: refusing God in what He is, love. Then what mercy is there for one who does not accept mercy, what forgiveness for one who does not accept forgiveness? One cannot forgive or save by force.