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John 20:22
Verse
Context
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
21Again Jesus said to them, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.”22When He had said this, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.23If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He breathed on them - Intimating, by this, that they were to be made new men, in order to be properly qualified for the work to which he had called them; for in this breathing he evidently alluded to the first creation of man, when God breathed into him the breath of lives, and he became a living soul: the breath or Spirit of God (רוח אלהים ruach Elohim) being the grand principle and cause of his spiritual and Divine life. Receive ye the Holy Ghost - From this act of our Lord, the influences of the Holy Spirit on the souls of men have been termed his inspiration; from in, into, and spiro, I breathe. Every word of Christ which is received in the heart by faith comes accompanied by this Divine breathing; and, without this, there is neither light nor life. Just as Adam was before God breathed the quickening spirit into him, so is every human soul till it receives this inspiration. Nothing is seen, known, discerned, or felt of God, but through this. To every private Christian this is essentially requisite; and no man ever did or ever can preach the Gospel of God, so as to convince and convert sinners, without it. "There are many (says pious Quesnel) who extol the dignity of the apostolic mission, and compare that of bishops and pastors with that of Christ; but with what shame and fear ought they to be filled, if they do but compare the life and deportment of Christ with the lives and conversation of those who glory in being made partakers of his mission. They may depend on it that, if sent at all, they are only sent on the same conditions, and for the same end, namely - to preach the truth, and to establish the kingdom of God, by opposing the corruption of the world; and by acting and suffering to the end, for the advancement of the glory of God. That person is no other than a monster in the Church who, by his sacred office, should be a dispenser of the Spirit, and who, by the corruption of his own heart, and by a disorderly, worldly, voluptuous, and scandalous life, is, at the same time, a member and instrument of the devil."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he breathed on them--a symbolical conveyance to them of the Spirit. and saith, Receive ye the Holy Ghost--an earnest and first-fruits of the more copious Pentecostal effusion.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And when he had said this,.... That is, declared he sent them forth in like manner as his Father sent him: he breathed on them; in allusion to God's breathing the breath of life into man, at his creation; or rather, to the Spirit himself, who is the breath of God, and proceeds from him, as from the Father; and who breathes both upon persons in regeneration, and in qualifying for ministerial service, at the instance and influence of Christ: and such an opinion the Jews have of the Spirit of the Messiah, who say (p), that "the Spirit went from between the wings of the cherubim, "and breathed upon him" (Menasseh) by the decree, or order of the word of the Lord.'' And saith unto them, receive ye the Holy Ghost; meaning not the grace of the Holy Ghost in regeneration, which they had received already; but the gifts of the Spirit, to qualify them for the work he now sent them to do, and which were not now actually bestowed; but this breathing on them, and the words that attended it, were a symbol, pledge, and confirmation, of what they were to receive on the day of Pentecost: hence it appears, that it is the Spirit of God, who, by his gifts and grace, makes and qualifies men to be ministers of the Gospel; and our Lord by this action, and these words, gives a very considerable proof of his deity: the Papists show their impudence and wickedness, in imitating Christ by their insufflations, or breathing on men; pretending thereby to convey the Holy Spirit to them. (p) Targum in 2 Chron. xxxiii. 13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:22 Jesus commissioned the disciples and then empowered them with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit had not been given previously because Jesus had not yet been glorified (7:39). The glorified Jesus, resplendent in his resurrected body, poured the Spirit on his followers. This gift fulfilled many promises that the Spirit would be sent (14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 13). It foreshadows the arrival of the Spirit’s empowering presence at Pentecost (Acts 1:4-5; 2:1-47).
John 20:22
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
21Again Jesus said to them, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you.”22When He had said this, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.23If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
What Is the True Church of Jesus Christ
By David Wilkerson5.7K48:33MAT 18:20JHN 20:22EPH 4:322TI 2:162TI 2:21HEB 10:25This sermon emphasizes the true Church of Jesus Christ, highlighting the importance of individual believers having a special love relationship with Jesus, being wholly devoted to Him, and gathering with others who share that devotion. It stresses the need for the presence of Jesus in the church, the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in changing hearts, and the power of forgiveness and remitting sins against one another as a key aspect of the church. The sermon encourages believers to seek a church where the presence of the Lord is real and to be part of a body of devoted individuals.
Samson - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill3.4K26:29SamsonJDG 16:282SA 6:14PSA 119:83EZK 37:1JHN 20:22ACT 2:4ACT 2:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of dying to oneself and surrendering to God's plans. He emphasizes that true success comes from God's triumph and that He will raise up those who are obedient to Him. The speaker also highlights the need for holy anger and jealousy for God's glory, as seen in the example of Samson. He encourages the audience to have a holy indignation towards the sin and injustice in the world and to seek an anointing that will glorify God.
The Candlestick - Ephesus
By Carter Conlon3.1K50:44EphesusPSA 119:97MAT 13:13JHN 20:22REV 2:1In this sermon, the preacher warns the audience about the danger of losing their love relationship with God. He emphasizes the importance of remembering where they have fallen from and turning back to God. The preacher uses the analogy of a marriage ceremony to illustrate the initial love and cherishing that should be present in their relationship with God. He also highlights the danger of becoming complacent in ministry and losing the passion for serving God's children. The sermon concludes with a reference to the book of John, where Jesus questions Peter about his love for Him, emphasizing the need for a genuine and enduring love relationship with God.
(Genesis) Genesis 2:7
By J. Vernon McGee2.6K06:12GenesisGEN 1:1PSA 8:5ECC 3:20MAT 6:33JHN 20:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the similarities and differences between different types of automobiles, specifically Ford and Chevrolet. He uses this analogy to highlight the uniqueness of human beings compared to other creatures. The speaker emphasizes that man is fearfully and wonderfully made, as God breathed life into him, making him a living soul. He explains that man is made up of the same chemical elements found in the ground, but his spirit is destined for God. The sermon also touches on the idea that evolution cannot explain the appearance of homo sapiens on Earth.
The Law of the Spirit
By George Warnock2.4K59:49Spirit Of GodMAT 18:20JHN 20:22ROM 7:15ROM 8:1EPH 2:21REV 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of obedience and timing in the work of God. He compares the precision of science in modern times to the flexibility of God's timing. The speaker encourages believers to be filled with the Spirit and move in unity as the body of Christ. He also highlights the conflict between the old Adam and the desire to do what is right. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes the need for obedience and discernment in following God's timing and will.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks2.3K59:10Seeing JesusEZK 1:1JHN 20:22REV 4:2REV 21:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving up on God's purpose, even in difficult circumstances. He uses the example of Jeremiah, who initially resolved to stop speaking about God's message but couldn't hold it in because the fire burned within him. The speaker also refers to Ezekiel's vision of the glory of the Lord, which gives hope and encouragement in times of despair. The sermon concludes with a prayer for a new revelation of God's throne and a plea for the message to become more than just words, but a source of life and strength.
He Who Began a Good Work
By Gareth Evans1.4K28:00God's GraceJHN 20:22ACT 16:25ROM 8:28PHP 1:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who crashes his plane in the Sahara Desert and embarks on a journey for water. Along the way, he encounters a gatekeeper who denies him entry to a swimming pool without ties. The speaker uses this story as a metaphor to illustrate that God always provides us with what we need for our spiritual journey. He emphasizes that God gives us everything necessary to become like Christ and encourages the audience to see Jesus in one another and love and follow one another. The sermon also references the Titanic and the false promises of the world.
Church History - Session 4 (Fullfillment (Cont'd))
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.4K34:22PSA 96:1JHN 1:29JHN 20:22REV 2:1REV 4:11REV 5:6REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the vision of John in the book of Revelation. He describes how John saw heavenly figures and the glory of God on the throne. However, there was something missing that could satisfy John's heart and open up the future of the church. Then, John sees a lamb as it had been slain in the midst of the throne, symbolizing Jesus. The preacher emphasizes the significance of Jesus in the New Testament and how he is closer to believers than breathing or hands and feet. The sermon also highlights the importance of praising Jesus and having a new song in our hearts. The preacher further explains how the Old Testament and New Testament are connected, with Jesus being the central focus.
How Revival Comes: The Power of the Spirit
By Ronald Glass1.3K55:18RevivalMAT 6:33JHN 20:22ACT 1:14ACT 2:4ACT 2:14ACT 2:44In this sermon, the preacher discusses the power of revival and its impact on the church and society. He shares an example from the birth of the United States, where a powerful revival was happening in Virginia around the time of the Declaration of Independence. The preacher recounts a specific incident at Boiseau's Chapel, where during a sermon, the presence of God was so strong that hundreds of people fell to the ground and the chapel seemed to shake. The preacher emphasizes the need for revival in the church today, as it leads to a passionate desire to share the gospel and a powerful impact on the community.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Danger of Addictions
By Zac Poonen70030:59GEN 2:7GEN 3:1EZK 16:49MAT 5:28MRK 9:47JHN 20:22GAL 6:7HEB 12:15HEB 12:17This sermon delves into the creation of man in Genesis, highlighting the unique aspects of humanity compared to animals, emphasizing the internal struggle between the spirit and the flesh. It discusses the consequences of yielding to earthly desires versus responding to the upward pull towards God. The speaker warns against justifying sin using Scripture and the progression of addiction leading to severe consequences. The importance of humility, discipline, fasting, and compassion is stressed to avoid falling into destructive patterns.
The Spirit During the Mission of the Messiah
By G. Campbell Morgan0Empowerment for MissionThe Holy SpiritISA 61:1MAT 7:11LUK 4:18LUK 11:13JHN 7:37JHN 14:16JHN 16:13JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ACT 2:4G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit during the mission of the Messiah, illustrating how the Spirit spoke through the prophets and prepared the way for Jesus. He highlights the significance of Jesus' baptism, where the Spirit descended upon Him, empowering Him for His ministry of preaching good news, healing, and liberation. Morgan notes that Jesus taught His disciples about the Holy Spirit, revealing God's willingness to give the Spirit to those who ask, yet they did not fully grasp this until after His resurrection. The sermon culminates in the understanding that the Spirit's work is essential for the continuation of Christ's mission through His followers. Ultimately, the Spirit, who was present in Jesus' life, is now available to empower believers for their own mission.
The Acts of the Apostles - Part 1
By John Nelson Darby0The Great CommissionThe Holy SpiritJOL 2:28MAT 28:19LUK 24:49JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ACT 2:38ACT 3:19ACT 13:38ROM 1:16HEB 10:14John Nelson Darby discusses the continuity of Christ's ministry through the Holy Spirit as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles, emphasizing that the message of repentance and forgiveness of sins is central to both the Gospel of Luke and Acts. He highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit's role in empowering the apostles and the early church, noting that the resurrection of Christ marks a new phase in His ministry. Darby also addresses the importance of understanding the relationship between the ascension of Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as well as the implications for the church's mission to preach the Gospel to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Deliverance and Holiness
By John Nelson Darby0DeliveranceHolinessJHN 10:10JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ROM 7:14ROM 8:22CO 4:10GAL 2:19EPH 1:7HEB 12:141JN 4:17John Nelson Darby emphasizes the distinction between deliverance and the realization of holiness, arguing that true deliverance comes from experiencing the weight of sin rather than mere intellectual understanding. He explains that while justification is essential for holiness, many confuse the two, seeking justification through their own efforts rather than resting in Christ's work. Darby highlights the importance of recognizing one's incapacity to do good and the necessity of being dead to sin in order to live in Christ. He encourages believers to understand their identity in Christ and to pursue practical holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper realization of being dead to the law and alive in Christ, urging Christians to live out this truth in their daily lives.
(Power From on High) 2. the Baptism With the Holy Ghost
By A.B. Simpson0Empowerment for ServiceBaptism Of The Holy SpiritZEC 2:5MAT 3:11JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ROM 8:91CO 12:13GAL 5:22EPH 4:302TI 1:7HEB 12:29A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of the baptism with the Holy Ghost, explaining that it is Christ who baptizes us with the Spirit, enabling us to live a life reflective of His. He draws parallels between the Old and New Testament promises, highlighting that receiving the Holy Spirit follows receiving Christ as our Savior. Simpson elaborates on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, likening it to fire that purifies, refines, and energizes believers, making them effective in their spiritual lives. He encourages believers to fully surrender to Christ to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit, which empowers them to live out their faith with zeal and purpose. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep desire for the Holy Spirit's presence, which protects and energizes the believer's life.
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Part 2)
By Chuck Smith0Empowerment for WitnessBaptism Of The Holy SpiritMAT 3:11JHN 20:22ACT 1:4ACT 2:1ACT 2:38ACT 8:16ACT 9:6ACT 10:44ACT 11:15ACT 19:2Chuck Smith continues his exploration of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the promises made by John the Baptist and Jesus regarding this experience. He discusses the fulfillment of these promises at Pentecost and the subsequent experiences of the early church, highlighting that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is often a separate event from conversion. Smith argues that the Holy Spirit's indwelling and the baptism are distinct, and he encourages believers to remain open to the diverse ways God may work in their lives. He concludes with a prayer for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.
Receiving the Gift of the Spirit
By Chuck Smith0The Holy SpiritFaith and PrayerPSA 139:23JER 17:9MAT 6:8MAT 7:7LUK 11:13JHN 20:22ACT 2:15ACT 2:37EPH 5:18JAS 4:2Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of receiving the Holy Spirit as a divine gift promised by God, which is available to all believers regardless of their spiritual maturity. He explains that this gift cannot be earned or deserved, but must be received through faith and prayer, encouraging believers to ask for the Holy Spirit without being hindered by feelings of unworthiness. Smith highlights the importance of recognizing God's will in our requests and the necessity of thanking Him for the gift once it is received. He reassures that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome sin and be effective witnesses for Christ, rather than merely providing ecstatic experiences. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, urging believers to seek and receive this gift with confidence and gratitude.
The Gift - a Person
By G.W. North0BaptismHoly SpiritMAT 28:19JHN 20:22ACT 2:38ACT 8:14G.W. North emphasizes the significance of understanding the relationship between water baptism and the Baptism in the Spirit, noting that early apostles often practiced these baptisms in a sequence that has led to misconceptions within the Church. He argues that many believers mistakenly view water baptism as the only baptism, neglecting the deeper spiritual reality of receiving the Holy Spirit. North clarifies that the authority to baptize as the apostles did was unique to them and not transferable, highlighting the importance of recognizing the fullness of the Holy Spirit's gift. He calls for a reevaluation of how these baptisms are perceived and practiced in contemporary faith communities.
The All-Inclusive "In"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Living the Christian LifeIdentity in ChristJHN 14:10JHN 20:22ROM 6:5ROM 8:171CO 1:302CO 5:18EPH 1:10EPH 2:6PHP 1:27COL 3:101TH 4:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of being 'in Christ,' a phrase that encapsulates the entirety of Christian existence and purpose. He explains that all aspects of life, including creation, redemption, and sanctification, are found within this relationship, highlighting that true Christian living is not achievable by human effort but through Christ living in us. Sparks contrasts the state of being 'in Adam' with the transformative power of being 'in Christ,' underscoring the necessity of a deep, experiential incorporation into Him. He calls for believers to recognize their identity and unity in Christ, which is essential for effective service and prayer, as all actions must stem from divine revelation rather than human initiative. Ultimately, he stresses that the Christian life is a manifestation of Christ's life through believers, making it imperative to abide in Him for true effectiveness.
The Church - Transition From the Natural to the Spiritual
By T. Austin-Sparks0The ChurchSpiritual TransformationZEC 13:7MAT 26:31JHN 14:27JHN 20:22ACT 20:28ROM 15:331CO 15:45COL 1:20HEB 2:11HEB 13:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transition of the Church from a natural to a spiritual entity, highlighting that true believers are those disillusioned with worldly hopes and ambitions, now gathered on a heavenly basis. He explains that the Church serves as a witness to the Resurrection of Christ, embodying a spiritual corporate body that thrives on the peace established by His blood. The Holy Spirit governs the Church, empowering it as a new creation, while faith is essential for true fellowship with the risen Lord. Ultimately, the Church is portrayed as a family, united under the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of believers, reflecting the divine nature of Christ.
Enduement for Service
By D.L. Moody0Empowerment by the Holy SpiritReadiness for ServiceLUK 24:49JHN 14:12JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 4:31ACT 10:44ROM 8:141CO 12:7EPH 5:18D.L. Moody emphasizes the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit for effective service, arguing that many Christians today live beneath their privileges by not seeking this power. He reflects on the experiences of the Apostles, who, despite having the Holy Spirit, were commanded to wait for a special endowment of power before embarking on their mission. Moody challenges believers to examine their readiness to be used by God and to actively seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment for witnessing and ministry. He asserts that true effectiveness in spreading the Gospel requires supernatural power, which is available to all who earnestly seek it. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to be ready to go wherever God leads, filled with the Spirit to bear fruit for His kingdom.
Why Some Fail?
By D.L. Moody0Holy SpiritEmpowerment for MinistryLUK 24:49JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ACT 2:1D.L. Moody emphasizes the necessity of waiting for the Holy Spirit's power before engaging in ministry, illustrating that while the disciples received the Holy Spirit initially, they needed to tarry in Jerusalem to be fully empowered for their mission. He warns against the futility of working without divine anointing, as true effectiveness in service comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Moody highlights the distinction between having the Spirit within and the Spirit upon, asserting that the latter is essential for impactful witness. He encourages believers to trust in God's timing and to seek His power rather than rushing into work unprepared.
Co-Operating With the Holy Ghost
By A.B. Simpson0Spiritual GrowthCo-operation with the Holy SpiritJOL 2:28JHN 20:22ACT 2:4ACT 4:31ROM 8:61CO 12:7GAL 3:14EPH 5:181TH 5:19JUD 1:20A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of co-operating with the Holy Spirit, highlighting that while the Spirit operates sovereignly, He respects human free will and waits for our invitation to work in our lives. Simpson explains that receiving the Holy Spirit involves an active engagement, akin to consuming nourishment, and that being filled with the Spirit is a continual process of renewal and refreshment. He urges believers to trust, obey, and honor the Holy Spirit, recognizing His gentle guidance and the importance of responding to His voice. The sermon illustrates that our spiritual growth and effectiveness depend on how we utilize the gifts of the Spirit, drawing parallels with biblical parables. Ultimately, Simpson calls for a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, encouraging believers to expect His powerful presence in their lives.
Ye Are Not in the Flesh, but in the Spirit
By A.B. Simpson0Dependence On GodHoly SpiritJHN 14:17JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ROM 8:9ROM 8:261CO 2:122CO 5:17GAL 5:16EPH 3:161JN 4:13A.B. Simpson emphasizes that true spirituality is not about having a strong character but being filled with the Holy Spirit. He references Paul's teaching that believers are not in the flesh but in the Spirit if God's Spirit dwells in them. The new creation not only transforms the human spirit but also prepares it for God's presence, highlighting our dependence on Christ. Simpson illustrates that the essence of spirituality is complete reliance on the Holy Spirit, which fills every aspect of our being. The act of Christ breathing His Spirit into His disciples symbolizes the ultimate glory of this new creation.
He Breathed on Them
By A.B. Simpson0Spiritual RenewalReceiving the Holy SpiritLUK 11:13JHN 20:22ACT 2:4ROM 8:9EPH 5:18A.B. Simpson emphasizes the simplicity of receiving the Holy Spirit, likening it to the act of breathing. He illustrates that just as stale air can suffocate us, clinging to our old sinful and spiritual lives prevents us from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Simpson encourages believers to empty themselves of past burdens and to continuously seek a fresh infilling of the Spirit. By maintaining the right attitude of emptiness, we can effortlessly receive the life-giving breath of God. The message is a call to constant renewal and openness to the Holy Spirit's presence.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
He breathed on them - Intimating, by this, that they were to be made new men, in order to be properly qualified for the work to which he had called them; for in this breathing he evidently alluded to the first creation of man, when God breathed into him the breath of lives, and he became a living soul: the breath or Spirit of God (רוח אלהים ruach Elohim) being the grand principle and cause of his spiritual and Divine life. Receive ye the Holy Ghost - From this act of our Lord, the influences of the Holy Spirit on the souls of men have been termed his inspiration; from in, into, and spiro, I breathe. Every word of Christ which is received in the heart by faith comes accompanied by this Divine breathing; and, without this, there is neither light nor life. Just as Adam was before God breathed the quickening spirit into him, so is every human soul till it receives this inspiration. Nothing is seen, known, discerned, or felt of God, but through this. To every private Christian this is essentially requisite; and no man ever did or ever can preach the Gospel of God, so as to convince and convert sinners, without it. "There are many (says pious Quesnel) who extol the dignity of the apostolic mission, and compare that of bishops and pastors with that of Christ; but with what shame and fear ought they to be filled, if they do but compare the life and deportment of Christ with the lives and conversation of those who glory in being made partakers of his mission. They may depend on it that, if sent at all, they are only sent on the same conditions, and for the same end, namely - to preach the truth, and to establish the kingdom of God, by opposing the corruption of the world; and by acting and suffering to the end, for the advancement of the glory of God. That person is no other than a monster in the Church who, by his sacred office, should be a dispenser of the Spirit, and who, by the corruption of his own heart, and by a disorderly, worldly, voluptuous, and scandalous life, is, at the same time, a member and instrument of the devil."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he breathed on them--a symbolical conveyance to them of the Spirit. and saith, Receive ye the Holy Ghost--an earnest and first-fruits of the more copious Pentecostal effusion.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And when he had said this,.... That is, declared he sent them forth in like manner as his Father sent him: he breathed on them; in allusion to God's breathing the breath of life into man, at his creation; or rather, to the Spirit himself, who is the breath of God, and proceeds from him, as from the Father; and who breathes both upon persons in regeneration, and in qualifying for ministerial service, at the instance and influence of Christ: and such an opinion the Jews have of the Spirit of the Messiah, who say (p), that "the Spirit went from between the wings of the cherubim, "and breathed upon him" (Menasseh) by the decree, or order of the word of the Lord.'' And saith unto them, receive ye the Holy Ghost; meaning not the grace of the Holy Ghost in regeneration, which they had received already; but the gifts of the Spirit, to qualify them for the work he now sent them to do, and which were not now actually bestowed; but this breathing on them, and the words that attended it, were a symbol, pledge, and confirmation, of what they were to receive on the day of Pentecost: hence it appears, that it is the Spirit of God, who, by his gifts and grace, makes and qualifies men to be ministers of the Gospel; and our Lord by this action, and these words, gives a very considerable proof of his deity: the Papists show their impudence and wickedness, in imitating Christ by their insufflations, or breathing on men; pretending thereby to convey the Holy Spirit to them. (p) Targum in 2 Chron. xxxiii. 13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:22 Jesus commissioned the disciples and then empowered them with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit had not been given previously because Jesus had not yet been glorified (7:39). The glorified Jesus, resplendent in his resurrected body, poured the Spirit on his followers. This gift fulfilled many promises that the Spirit would be sent (14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7, 13). It foreshadows the arrival of the Spirit’s empowering presence at Pentecost (Acts 1:4-5; 2:1-47).