Intrusive & Blasphemous Thoughts


Introduction

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, disturbing ideas or images that seem to force their way into the mind. When these thoughts are blasphemous — mocking God, denying Christ, or cursing the Holy Spirit — they can cause deep anguish in tender consciences. Many believers fear that having such thoughts proves they are reprobate or unforgiven.

The Bible shows us that temptation and intrusive thoughts are not the same as sin. Christ Himself was tempted by Satan’s blasphemous suggestions (Matthew 4:1–11), yet without sin. Richard Baxter warns that scrupulous souls often mistake the presence of these thoughts for consent to them. He counsels that resistance to such thoughts, though painful, is itself a sign of grace.


Scripture Focus

  • “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5, KJV)


List of Relevant Scriptures

  • Psalm 139:23–24 – Search me, O God, and know my heart.
  • Matthew 4:1–11 – Jesus resists Satan’s blasphemous temptations.
  • Matthew 12:31 – All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven, except the unpardonable sin.
  • Romans 7:21–25 – The believer struggles with sin but delights in God’s law inwardly.
  • 1 Corinthians 10:13 – God provides a way of escape in temptation.
  • Philippians 4:8 – Think on things true, honest, pure, and lovely.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:3 – The Lord is faithful; He will establish and keep you from evil.
  • Hebrews 4:15 – Christ was tempted in all points, yet without sin.
  • James 4:7 – Resist the devil, and he will flee.


Overview of the Biblical Teaching on This Issue

Intrusive blasphemous thoughts are fiery darts of the enemy (Ephesians 6:16), not evidence of unbelief. The Bible makes clear that sin lies not in the temptation itself but in yielding to it. A believer who grieves over these thoughts is already showing hatred for them, which is itself a sign of regeneration.

God promises both pardon and strength. Christ’s atoning work covers not only sins committed but also the torment of thoughts we despise. The Spirit helps us fix our minds on what is pure and good, and assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38–39).


Pastoral Guidance

Drawing from Baxter’s counsel:

  • Do not mistake temptation for consent: “The troubling thought is not your sin, but your burden.”¹ Consent of the will is what makes sin, not the mere presence of the thought.
  • Do not dwell or argue with intrusive thoughts: Baxter warns that engaging them gives them strength. Instead, dismiss them and turn to prayer or Scripture.
  • Fix the heart on Christ, not on the thought: The more we struggle to push thoughts away, the more power they gain. Better to redirect the mind to Christ’s promises and sufficiency.
  • Use the Shield of Faith: Trust God’s Word above feelings. Fiery darts cannot harm those covered by Christ.
  • Guard against despair: Many fear they have committed the unpardonable sin. Baxter stresses that such fear itself is evidence they have not, for the hardened do not mourn over blasphemy.
  • Practise holy diversion: Engage in godly duties, fellowship, and service, which draw the mind away from obsessive fears.
  • Seek comfort in prayer and fellowship: Do not isolate. Share struggles with trusted believers who can remind you of truth.


Further Reading

  • Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, Ch. XI (“Directions for Troubled Consciences and Scrupulous Believers”).
  • Thomas Brooks, Precious Remedies against Satan’s Devices (esp. remedies against Satan’s fiery darts).
  • John Owen, The Mortification of Sin (on resisting temptation).
  • William Perkins, A Discourse of Conscience.
  • Modern: John Piper, When I Don’t Desire God (on battling unbelieving thoughts).


Footnote

  1. Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, Ch. XI.