The Bible makes a clear distinction between ignorant sin and wilful sin, showing that the consequences for each are very different. Below is a definition of both types of sin along with scriptural examples.
Contents
- 1 1. Ignorant Sin: Sin Committed Without Full Knowledge
- 2 2. Wilful Sin: Deliberate, Knowing Rebellion Against God
- 3 3. Summary of Differences
- 4 4. Final Conclusion
- 5 1. The Scripture: Hebrews 10:26-29 (KJV)
- 6 2. Breaking Down Hebrews 10:26-29
- 7 3. Why is There No More Sacrifice for Wilful Sin?
- 8 4. How to Avoid Wilful Sin
- 9 5. Final Conclusion
- 10 1. Develop the Fear of Yahuah (Fear of the Lord)
- 11 2. Walk in the Spirit Daily
- 12 3. Keep God’s Word in Your Heart
- 13 4. Avoid Hardened Hearts by Repenting Quickly
- 14 5. Stay Accountable to Righteous People
- 15 6. Develop Self-Discipline and Resist Temptation
- 16 7. Keep an Eternal Mindset
- 17 Final Conclusion
1. Ignorant Sin: Sin Committed Without Full Knowledge
Definition:
Ignorant sin is sin committed unknowingly, without full understanding of God’s law or will. These sins are still considered transgressions, but God provides a way for atonement because the person did not act in deliberate defiance.
Scriptural Support:
Numbers 15:27-28 (KJV)
And if any soul sin through ignorance, then he shall bring a she-goat of the first year for a sin offering. And the priest shall make an atonement for the soul that sinneth ignorantly, when he sinneth by ignorance before the LORD, to make an atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him.
This passage shows that God makes provision for sins committed in ignorance—there is forgiveness available through atonement.
Luke 23:34 (KJV)
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.
Yahusha (Jesus) asked the Father to forgive those who crucified Him because they were acting in ignorance.
Examples of Ignorant Sin:
- Paul Before His Conversion
- 1 Timothy 1:13 – Paul persecuted believers, but he received mercy because he acted ignorantly in unbelief.
- He thought he was serving God but was actually fighting against the truth.
- A New Believer Who Doesn’t Yet Understand All of God’s Laws
- A person who just comes to the faith might not know about keeping the Sabbath or avoiding unclean foods.
- They are not in wilful rebellion but simply lack knowledge.
- A Person Raised in False Doctrine
- Someone who was taught all their life that the law was abolished may break God’s commandments thinking they are obeying Him.
- When they learn the truth, they must repent and follow God’s law.
God’s Mercy for Ignorant Sin:
- Ignorant sin is forgivable if a person repents when they learn the truth.
- Once a person gains knowledge, they are accountable for obeying God.
2. Wilful Sin: Deliberate, Knowing Rebellion Against God
Definition:
Wilful sin is sin committed intentionally, with full knowledge that it is wrong. This is an act of defiance against God and is far more serious than ignorant sin.
Scriptural Support:
Numbers 15:30-31 (KJV)
But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.
- “Presumptuously” means arrogantly, defiantly, or willfully.
- “Reproacheth the LORD” – The person is blaspheming God through their disobedience.
- They are cut off – No atonement is available because they knew the truth and still rebelled.
Hebrews 10:26-29 (KJV)
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins… Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant… an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
- “If we sin wilfully after receiving knowledge” → This means the person knows God’s law but chooses to break it.
- “There remaineth no more sacrifice for sins” → God will not accept repentance for wilful rebellion.
- “Done despite unto the Spirit of grace” → The person has insulted the Holy Spirit by rejecting conviction.
Examples of Wilful Sin:
- King Saul’s Rebellion
- 1 Samuel 15:1-23 – Saul knew God’s command to destroy the Amalekites completely but chose to disobey.
- His sin was not out of ignorance; he willfully did what he wanted.
- Samuel told Saul that rebellion is like witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:23).
- Judas Iscariot’s Betrayal
- John 12:6 – Judas stole money from the disciples’ treasury, showing he had a pattern of wilful sin.
- Matthew 26:14-16 – He deliberately betrayed Yahusha for money, knowing it was wrong.
- Matthew 27:3-5 – He later felt remorse, but not true repentance.
- A Believer Who Knows God’s Law But Chooses to Ignore It
- A person learns that keeping the Sabbath is a commandment but continues to work on the Sabbath with no care.
- They know the dietary laws but eat unclean foods anyway, saying, “God understands”.
- Someone receives the truth about fornication or adultery but continues in the sin intentionally.
- An Apostate Who Turns Away from the Faith
- Hebrews 6:4-6 warns that if someone fully experiences the Holy Spirit and then falls away, it is impossible to renew them to repentance.
- This is not an accidental sin—it is a full, deliberate rejection of God.
God’s Judgment for Wilful Sin:
- Wilful sin is NOT forgiven.
- It leads to judgment and eternal destruction.
- Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is when someone continually and knowingly rejects God’s truth (Matthew 12:31-32).
3. Summary of Differences
Type of Sin | Definition | Forgivable? | Examples |
---|---|---|---|
Ignorant Sin | Committed without full knowledge or understanding | Yes, if repented when truth is learned | Paul persecuting believers before conversion, someone unknowingly breaking dietary laws |
Wilful Sin | Committed knowingly, in direct rebellion against God’s truth | No, it leads to judgment and separation from God | Saul’s disobedience, Judas betraying Christ, continuing in sin after knowing the truth |
4. Final Conclusion
- Ignorant sin can be atoned for because the person did not know they were sinning.
- Wilful sin is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit because it is a knowing rejection of God’s truth and law.
- Wilful sin leads to destruction—there is no sacrifice left for those who continue in rebellion.
- The key is repentance: If a person learns the truth and turns away from sin, they can be forgiven.
- However, if they continue in sin after knowing the truth, they are counted as God’s adversaries (Hebrews 10:26-27).
Would you like me to integrate this into your lesson plan for teaching others?
You said:
Why does Hebrews 10:26-29 say there is no more sacrifice for wilful sin?
ChatGPT said:
Why Does Hebrews 10:26-29 Say There Is No More Sacrifice for Wilful Sin?
Hebrews 10:26-29 gives one of the most severe warnings in Scripture, stating that for those who sin wilfully after knowing the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins. This means that once a person intentionally rejects God’s law and tramples on the blood of Christ, there is no more atonement available for them. Let’s examine this passage in depth.
1. The Scripture: Hebrews 10:26-29 (KJV)
26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
2. Breaking Down Hebrews 10:26-29
This passage highlights three key reasons why there is no more sacrifice for wilful sin:
A. Wilful Sin Is a Rejection of the Truth (v. 26)
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins.
- “If we sin wilfully” → This means deliberate, intentional sin with full knowledge.
- “After we have received the knowledge of the truth” → This applies to those who already know God’s commandments.
- “There remaineth no more sacrifice for sins” → Christ’s sacrifice does not cover wilful rebellion.
Example of This Principle in Torah:
Numbers 15:30-31 (KJV)
But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously… the same reproacheth the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.
- In the Old Testament, sacrifices were available for ignorant sin (Numbers 15:27-29), but no atonement was available for wilful rebellion.
- Hebrews 10:26 follows the same principle—wilful sin = no more sacrifice.
B. Wilful Sin Brings Judgment, Not Mercy (v. 27)
But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
- Judgment replaces mercy → The one who wilfully sins becomes God’s adversary.
- “Fiery indignation” → This refers to hellfire, showing that wilful rebellion leads to eternal destruction.
Example of This Principle in Torah:
- Deuteronomy 17:12 – If someone arrogantly rejected the priest or judge in Israel, they were put to death.
- 1 Samuel 15:23 – Saul wilfully disobeyed God’s command, and Samuel told him that rebellion is like witchcraft.
C. Wilful Sin is Worse Than Rejecting Moses’ Law (v. 28-29)
He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
Key Points:
- Under Moses’ law, physical death was the punishment for wilful sin.
- Under the New Covenant, the punishment is worse—eternal separation from God.
- Three Major Sins in Verse 29:
- “Hath trodden under foot the Son of God” → Disrespecting Yahusha’s sacrifice.
- “Counted the blood of the covenant an unholy thing” → Treating Christ’s sacrifice as worthless.
- “Done despite unto the Spirit of grace” → Insulting and resisting the Holy Spirit.
Example of This Principle in Torah:
- Leviticus 10:1-2 – Nadab and Abihu wilfully disobeyed God’s instructions for worship and were killed immediately.
- 2 Samuel 6:6-7 – Uzzah touched the Ark of the Covenant against God’s command and was struck dead.
3. Why is There No More Sacrifice for Wilful Sin?
A. Because Wilful Sin is Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit
Matthew 12:31-32 (KJV)
Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
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.
- Wilful sin = Rejecting the Holy Spirit’s conviction.
- This sin leads to eternal separation from God.
B. Because There is No More Repentance for Those Who Turn Away
Hebrews 6:4-6 (KJV)
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
- If a person knows the truth and turns away, repentance is no longer possible.
- They have fully rejected God’s mercy, just like Hebrews 10:26 says.
4. How to Avoid Wilful Sin
- Fear God and Stay Humble
- Proverbs 9:10 – The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.
- A fearful respect for God keeps us from wilfully sinning.
- Listen to the Holy Spirit’s Conviction
- John 16:8 – The Spirit convicts us of sin.
- Acts 7:51 warns against resisting the Spirit.
- Do Not Harden Your Heart
- Hebrews 3:12-15 – Sin hardens the heart, making repentance impossible.
- Romans 1:28 – God eventually gives people over to a reprobate mind.
- Walk in the Spirit to Avoid Sin
- Galatians 5:16 – Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
- The Holy Spirit empowers us to resist temptation.
5. Final Conclusion
- Hebrews 10:26-29 teaches that wilful sin after knowing the truth is unpardonable.
- Under Moses’ law, physical death was the punishment, but under Christ, the punishment is eternal.
- Wilful sin is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, rejecting God’s mercy entirely.
- There is no more sacrifice because the person has rejected the only way to be saved.
- The only way to avoid this judgment is to fear God, stay humble, and walk in the Spirit.
Would you like me to integrate this into your lesson plan for teaching others?
You said:
How can believers avoid wilful disobedience and walk in the Spirit?
ChatGPT said:
How Can Believers Avoid Wilful Disobedience and Walk in the Spirit?
Wilful disobedience is a deliberate, knowing rejection of God’s commandments, which places a person in danger of judgment (Hebrews 10:26-29). To avoid this, believers must walk in the Spirit, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead them into obedience and keep them from sin. Below is a structured guide on how to avoid wilful sin and walk in the Spirit.
1. Develop the Fear of Yahuah (Fear of the Lord)
Scriptural Support:
Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 (KJV)
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
How Fear of God Prevents Wilful Sin:
- Fear of God brings wisdom, guiding believers to avoid sin.
- A healthy reverence for God’s holiness and judgment discourages disobedience.
- When a person fears God, they will be careful not to sin wilfully.
Practical Steps to Develop the Fear of Yahuah:
- Meditate on God’s Holiness (Isaiah 6:1-5).
- Read scriptures about God’s judgment on rebellion (e.g., Hebrews 10:26-31, Revelation 21:8).
- Acknowledge that God sees everything (Proverbs 15:3).
2. Walk in the Spirit Daily
Scriptural Support:
Galatians 5:16 (KJV)
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Romans 8:13-14 (KJV)
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
What It Means to Walk in the Spirit:
- Walking in the Spirit means allowing the Holy Spirit to lead your thoughts, actions, and desires.
- It is a moment-by-moment dependence on God’s guidance.
- Those who walk in the Spirit will not give in to sinful desires.
Practical Steps to Walk in the Spirit:
- Begin each day with prayer – Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you (Luke 11:13).
- Meditate on Scripture daily (Psalm 1:2).
- Be sensitive to the Spirit’s conviction – If He warns you about something, obey immediately.
- Stay away from fleshly influences – Avoid things that provoke temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).
3. Keep God’s Word in Your Heart
Scriptural Support:
Psalm 119:11 (KJV)
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Joshua 1:8 (KJV)
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
How God’s Word Prevents Wilful Sin:
- The more Scripture you internalize, the harder it is for sin to deceive you.
- Meditating on God’s Word builds a strong conscience against rebellion.
- The Word of God strengthens conviction, making it easier to say NO to sin.
Practical Steps to Keep God’s Word in Your Heart:
- Memorize key scriptures about obedience and sin (e.g., Hebrews 10:26-29, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10).
- Meditate on God’s Word daily – Set aside time for Bible study (Psalm 1:2).
- Listen to and speak Scripture throughout the day (Colossians 3:16).
4. Avoid Hardened Hearts by Repenting Quickly
Scriptural Support:
Hebrews 3:12-13 (KJV)
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
1 John 1:9 (KJV)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Why Quick Repentance is Important:
- Sin hardens the heart over time if left unchecked.
- A person who delays repentance will become desensitized to sin.
- Repenting quickly keeps the believer in a state of humility and submission.
Practical Steps to Maintain a Soft Heart:
- Confess sins immediately when convicted (Psalm 51:10).
- Examine yourself daily to ensure your heart remains tender (2 Corinthians 13:5).
- Surround yourself with godly people who encourage righteousness (Hebrews 10:24-25).
5. Stay Accountable to Righteous People
Scriptural Support:
Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (KJV)
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Why Accountability Prevents Wilful Sin:
- Being surrounded by righteous people discourages rebellion.
- A strong spiritual community keeps believers in check.
- Fellow believers can rebuke, encourage, and correct as needed (Galatians 6:1).
Practical Steps to Stay Accountable:
- Have a godly mentor or accountability partner (James 5:16).
- Join a Bible study or fellowship with those who love truth.
- Be willing to receive correction without becoming offended (Proverbs 9:8).
6. Develop Self-Discipline and Resist Temptation
Scriptural Support:
1 Corinthians 9:27 (KJV)
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
James 4:7 (KJV)
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
How Self-Discipline Helps Avoid Wilful Sin:
- Controlling the flesh is key to avoiding sin.
- Resisting the devil means actively fighting against temptation.
- Self-discipline is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Practical Steps to Develop Self-Discipline:
- Fast regularly to discipline your flesh (Matthew 6:16-18).
- Set boundaries to avoid sinful environments (Psalm 101:3).
- Train yourself to say NO to temptations (Titus 2:12).
7. Keep an Eternal Mindset
Scriptural Support:
Colossians 3:2 (KJV)
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
Matthew 6:20-21 (KJV)
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
How This Helps Avoid Wilful Sin:
- Remembering God’s judgment and eternal reward makes disobedience seem foolish.
- Thinking about heaven and eternity keeps the believer focused on what truly matters.
Practical Steps to Maintain an Eternal Focus:
- Think about judgment day (Romans 14:12).
- Live as if Yahusha could return any moment (1 Thessalonians 5:2).
- Meditate on heavenly rewards for obedience (Revelation 22:14).
Final Conclusion
- Fear God and respect His commandments.
- Walk in the Spirit daily, relying on His power.
- Keep God’s Word in your heart to guard against sin.
- Repent quickly to avoid a hardened heart.
- Stay accountable to godly believers.
- Discipline yourself and resist temptation.
- Keep an eternal mindset to stay focused on righteousness.
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