The self-proclaimed “Rational Response Squad” is a group of atheists who are using the Internet to spread their belief that God does not exist. Atheism is nothing new, the Word of God even warns us of their false teaching and its consequences (Jude 1:4; 2 Peter 2:1-2; Romans 1:18-32).

Unfortunately, this group targets young people and endeavors to get them to permanently reject God by denying the existence of the Holy Spirit. Their website states “according to Mark 3:29 in the Holy Bible, ‘Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin.’ Jesus will forgive you for just about anything, but he won’t forgive you for denying the existence of the Holy Spirit. Ever. This is a one-way road you’re taking here.”

Their interpretation of Mark 3:29 is flawed in thinking that saying one denies the existence of the Holy Spirit is actually the blasphemy that Jesus was attributing to the Jewish scribes in Mark 3:29. In fact, the scribes were not denying the existence of the Holy Spirit, they were attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan. But we cannot expect unbelievers to properly interpret the Word of God.

Our understanding of Scripture indicates there are two classes of people who cannot be saved: 1. Those who never repent and seek God’s forgiveness. 2. Those who have been saved, then make shipwreck of faith and reject God’s salvation (Heb. 4:4-6).

There is no question that those who foolishly embrace the Blasphemy Challenge are being blasphemous, sacrilegious, and rebellious toward a loving God who does exist and who offers redemption for all. But even the foolish blasphemies of the rebellious sinner can be forgiven if he will repent and seek God’s forgiveness. We need to be prepared to counter the lie of the devil that denying what one knows nothing about is unforgivable.

We must also demonstrate a Christ-like life before the world so that others may see an example of Biblical Christianity, not the diseased, anemic misrepresentation that prompts such animosity, desperation, and hopelessness.

We should also help young people understand they do have an eternal soul that is created by God and is accountable to Him. Our methods should emphasize the love of God in sending His Son to provide the redemption we need to be in a right relationship with God.

We are in a spiritual conflict. The enemy will not be truthful. We should not expect him to be—he is the father of lies. We should also realize, the atheists are not our enemy, just the misguided, deluded, captive slaves of Satan.

Be not weary in well doing.

DC