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John 20:23
Verse
Context
Sermons
John Stott
Martin Geehan
Robert B. Thompson
Erlo Stegen
John Gill
Joseph John Gurney Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit - See the notes on Mat 16:19; Mat 18:18. It is certain God alone can forgive sins; and it would not only be blasphemous, but grossly absurd, to say that any creature could remit the guilt of a transgression which had been committed against the Creator. The apostles received from the Lord the doctrine of reconciliation, and the doctrine of condemnation. They who believed on the Son of God, in consequence of their preaching, had their sins remitted; and they who would not believe were declared to lie under condemnation. The reader is desired to consult the note referred to above, where the custom to which our Lord alludes is particularly considered. Dr. Lightfoot supposes that the power of life and death, and the power of delivering over to Satan, which was granted to the apostles, is here referred to. This was a power which the primitive apostles exclusively possessed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them, &c.--In any literal and authoritative sense this power was never exercised by one of the apostles, and plainly was never understood by themselves as possessed by them or conveyed to them. (See on Mat 16:19). The power to intrude upon the relation between men and God cannot have been given by Christ to His ministers in any but a ministerial or declarative sense--as the authorized interpreters of His word, while in the actings of His ministers, the real nature of the power committed to them is seen in the exercise of church discipline.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit,.... God only can forgive sins, and Christ being God, has a power to do so likewise; but he never communicated any such power to his apostles; nor did they ever assume any such power to themselves, or pretend to exercise it; it is the mark of antichrist, to attempt anything of the kind; who, in so doing, usurps the divine prerogative, places himself in his seat, and shows himself as if he was God: but this is to be understood only in a doctrinal, or ministerial way, by preaching the full and free remission of sins, through the blood of Christ, according to the riches of God's grace, to such as repent of their sins, and believe in Christ; declaring, that all such persons as do so repent and believe, all their sins are forgiven for Christ's sake: and accordingly, they are remitted unto them; in agreement with Christ's own words, in his declaration and commission to his disciples; see Mar 16:16. On the other hand he signifies, that whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained: that is, that whatsoever sins ye declare are not forgiven, they are not forgiven; which is the case of all final unbelievers, and impenitent sinners; who dying without repentance towards God, and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, according to the Gospel declaration, shall be damned, and are damned; for God stands by, and will stand by and confirm the Gospel of his Son, faithfully preached by his ministering servants; and all the world will sooner or later be convinced of the validity, truth, and certainty, of the declarations on each of these heads, made by them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:23 If you forgive anyone’s sins: The ongoing work of Christ’s followers parallels the work of Christ. Christ’s followers do not distribute and withdraw God’s forgiveness on a whim, but they follow Jesus’ prompting through the Spirit (15:5), just as Jesus obeyed his Father (14:31).
John 20:23
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
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
Great Commission - Part 1
By John Stott7.8K40:02Great CommissionMAT 28:19MRK 16:9LUK 24:47JHN 20:23ACT 1:6ACT 2:38ACT 10:43In this sermon, the preacher discusses the Great Commission and its four essential elements. The first element is the need for believers to have a personal experience of peace before sharing the word of God. The second element is the importance of identifying with the people to whom they are sent, living in the world and understanding their struggles. The third element is the necessity of the Holy Spirit's power in ministry. Lastly, the preacher emphasizes the significance of an authoritative proclamation of the divine terms of peace. The sermon also addresses the misinterpretation of certain verses by the Catholic Church regarding priestly absolution and sacramental confession.
Jude - Korah
By Martin Geehan1.3K35:05KorahJHN 20:231CO 10:111PE 2:9JUD 1:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Korah from the book of Numbers in the Bible. The sermon emphasizes the theme of man's failure and God's abundant mercy. The speaker highlights the importance of learning from the past examples of the Israelites and being cautious of destruction. The sermon also emphasizes the need for believers to have a strong faith and not become complacent or cold-hearted in their relationship with God.
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.
Either It's God or It's People
By Robert B. Thompson6381:08:00DEU 8:3MAT 6:33JHN 14:12JHN 20:23In this sermon, Eddie discusses the three ways in which every son or daughter of God is tested. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these areas, particularly for those in training for ministry. Eddie also mentions a book called "Ministry to the House or Ministry to the Lord" by Watchmen Knee, which aligns with his message of ministering to God rather than seeking the approval of others. He highlights the need for Christians to be like soldiers of Jesus Christ, standing firm in their faith and not being swayed by the opinions of people.
In the Storm With Jesus
By Erlo Stegen0Surrender to JesusFaith in TrialsPRO 28:13ZEC 5:1MAT 8:18JHN 20:23Erlo Stegen emphasizes the profound implications of Jesus calming the storm while in the boat with His disciples, illustrating that even in our greatest fears, Jesus remains sovereign and present. He highlights the importance of recognizing our sins and the pain they cause Jesus, urging believers to seek forgiveness and surrender fully to Him. Stegen reminds us that having Jesus in our lives transforms our perspective on trials, as He provides peace amidst chaos. The sermon calls for a commitment to holiness and a rejection of sin, encouraging listeners to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, regardless of worldly distractions.
Of Church Discipline.
By John Gill0Authority of ChristChurch DisciplineISA 26:1EZK 43:10MAT 16:19MAT 18:17JHN 20:23ROM 16:171CO 5:7GAL 5:122TH 3:61TI 1:20John Gill emphasizes that church discipline is rooted in divine authority rather than human laws, asserting that Christ is the sole head and lawgiver of the church. He clarifies that many commonly cited scriptures regarding church discipline are often misinterpreted, particularly those concerning the keys of the kingdom and excommunication. Gill outlines the proper procedures for admitting members into the church, emphasizing the need for personal faith and mutual consent, while also addressing the importance of maintaining moral integrity within the church community. He concludes by discussing the necessity of excommunication as a means to preserve the church's purity and honor God, while also aiming for the restoration of the individual involved.
The Papal and Hierarchial System - Part 4
By Joseph John Gurney0MAT 18:15JHN 20:23ACT 15:221CO 5:41TI 2:5HEB 7:26HEB 13:15JAS 5:161PE 5:2Joseph John Gurney preaches about the spiritual power of the priesthood, highlighting the dangers of the hierarchy's usurpation of authority and the abuse of spiritual power by the clergy, particularly under the papal system. He emphasizes the importance of Christ being the sole High Priest and the ultimate authority in the Church, rejecting the idea of human representatives or viceroys. Gurney delves into the scriptural basis for the priesthood, refuting the notions of absolution through human priests and the sacrificial system of the mass, asserting that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is the only propitiation for sin. He also addresses the issue of miracles in the context of the papacy, distinguishing between the genuine miracles of the New Testament and the deceptive wonders claimed by the Roman Catholic Church.
The Ministerial Commission, a Trust From Christ for the Benefit of His People
By J.H. Newman0DAN 9:7LUK 10:16JHN 20:232CO 4:1EPH 4:11J.H. Newman preaches about the strength of the Church of God in times of trial, emphasizing the importance of humbly acknowledging sins and imperfections while also firmly relying on God's promises. He highlights the duty of the clergy to magnify their office not for personal exaltation but for the benefit of the people, as ambassadors of Christ entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. Newman urges the clergy to faithfully proclaim the message of forgiveness and redemption, guarding the sacred treasure of their commission for the edification of the Church and the glory of God.
On the Priesthood - Part 3
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 5:22JHN 5:22JHN 20:231CO 12:262CO 3:101TI 3:1JAS 5:14John Chrysostom emphasizes the humility and purity required for the priesthood, highlighting the dangers of arrogance, vainglory, and uncontrolled anger that can lead to spiritual downfall. He stresses the importance of avoiding the desire for authority and power, as well as the need for priests to be vigilant, discerning, and free from the love of glory. Chrysostom warns against the perils of seeking the priesthood for personal gain or recognition, urging priests to be selfless and focused on serving others with humility and grace.
Teaching on Release and Forgiveness
By Gareth Evans0MAT 16:19MAT 18:15LUK 23:34JHN 20:23ACT 7:60HEB 12:151JN 1:9Gareth Evans preaches on the importance of not letting resentment grow when someone has sinned against you, emphasizing the need to deal with soul wounds in a Biblical way. By forgiving the offender and asking God for forgiveness on their behalf, we release them from God's judgment, allowing God to minister to them and bring reconciliation. This act of releasing others for their sins enables God to speak into their lives, ultimately bringing healing to our own soul-wounds and fostering reconciliation.
It Shall Not Be Forgiven
By George MacDonald0MAT 6:14MAT 12:31MAT 18:21MAT 18:35LUK 12:10LUK 23:34JHN 20:23ROM 2:41JN 1:9George MacDonald preaches about the importance of forgiveness and the unpardonable sin, emphasizing the need to understand the depth of God's forgiveness and the consequences of denying the Spirit of Truth. He delves into the concept of forgiveness between a father and a son, highlighting the transformative power of repentance and the necessity of love and reconciliation. MacDonald explores the idea of the sin against the Holy Ghost as a condition of spiritual depravity that shuts out God's forgiveness, but he also offers hope for redemption and purification through divine love and mercy.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit - See the notes on Mat 16:19; Mat 18:18. It is certain God alone can forgive sins; and it would not only be blasphemous, but grossly absurd, to say that any creature could remit the guilt of a transgression which had been committed against the Creator. The apostles received from the Lord the doctrine of reconciliation, and the doctrine of condemnation. They who believed on the Son of God, in consequence of their preaching, had their sins remitted; and they who would not believe were declared to lie under condemnation. The reader is desired to consult the note referred to above, where the custom to which our Lord alludes is particularly considered. Dr. Lightfoot supposes that the power of life and death, and the power of delivering over to Satan, which was granted to the apostles, is here referred to. This was a power which the primitive apostles exclusively possessed.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them, &c.--In any literal and authoritative sense this power was never exercised by one of the apostles, and plainly was never understood by themselves as possessed by them or conveyed to them. (See on Mat 16:19). The power to intrude upon the relation between men and God cannot have been given by Christ to His ministers in any but a ministerial or declarative sense--as the authorized interpreters of His word, while in the actings of His ministers, the real nature of the power committed to them is seen in the exercise of church discipline.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whose soever sins ye remit,.... God only can forgive sins, and Christ being God, has a power to do so likewise; but he never communicated any such power to his apostles; nor did they ever assume any such power to themselves, or pretend to exercise it; it is the mark of antichrist, to attempt anything of the kind; who, in so doing, usurps the divine prerogative, places himself in his seat, and shows himself as if he was God: but this is to be understood only in a doctrinal, or ministerial way, by preaching the full and free remission of sins, through the blood of Christ, according to the riches of God's grace, to such as repent of their sins, and believe in Christ; declaring, that all such persons as do so repent and believe, all their sins are forgiven for Christ's sake: and accordingly, they are remitted unto them; in agreement with Christ's own words, in his declaration and commission to his disciples; see Mar 16:16. On the other hand he signifies, that whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained: that is, that whatsoever sins ye declare are not forgiven, they are not forgiven; which is the case of all final unbelievers, and impenitent sinners; who dying without repentance towards God, and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, according to the Gospel declaration, shall be damned, and are damned; for God stands by, and will stand by and confirm the Gospel of his Son, faithfully preached by his ministering servants; and all the world will sooner or later be convinced of the validity, truth, and certainty, of the declarations on each of these heads, made by them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:23 If you forgive anyone’s sins: The ongoing work of Christ’s followers parallels the work of Christ. Christ’s followers do not distribute and withdraw God’s forgiveness on a whim, but they follow Jesus’ prompting through the Spirit (15:5), just as Jesus obeyed his Father (14:31).