Sin always = spiritual death in God's economy...

Sin equals death every time unless there is true repentance. This is what we should know and what we should never minimize on our end. 

We should never use any excuse to make an occasion for sin. Over the years I have heard people speculate as to what the sin was that did not lead unto death that John spoke of in two verses in the last chapter of his first epistle. In fact this is the only specific reference in the Bible that uses these words, 'a sin not unto death'. One thing is sure, we are not told exactly what these mean or what specific sin this may be or if this sin pertained to a spiritual or physical death. So any assumptions would be just pure speculations. One must be careful to base a core doctrine or truth on just these two verses. What we should know from scripture is the only sin that is truly not unto death is any sin that is genuinely repented of. This is true. All other sins not repented of always lead to eternal spiritual death...this also is true. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. [17] All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. 1 John 5:16-17 I follow the scripture's guidance on the matter if sin, which is essentially important. If I know of someone who is in sin I pray that they repent so that they may live and not die spiritually. -> he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. While it is not myself directly who gives the sinner life but it is the fervent prayers of a righteous man that availeth much and for certain this does have a spiritual impact as the matter is given to the Father to tend to. He is the One who gives life...(James 5:16) I do not ever pray for anyone to die in their sins. That really should be a no-brainer but we have examples in the Bible who essentially did this and no doubt it is tempting for people to do so as well today. -> There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. This would be like Jonah, who wanted the Ninevites to be destroyed by God for their wicked sins. That would be horrible and definitely not pleasing to God if we would do the same to sinners today. Instead we should pray for repentance and life. As Jude 23 states we should, with fear, be working to pull the sinners out of the fire. I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Luke 13:3 and 6 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23 ...the soul that sinneth, it shall die. Ezekiel 18:4 and 20 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16 And of some have compassion, making a difference: [23] And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Jude 1:22-23