John 20:23

If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld."

Study Bible

If you forgive
The Greek word for "forgive" here is "ἀφίημι" (aphiēmi), which means to send away, let go, or release. In the context of the New Testament, it often refers to the remission of sins. This phrase emphasizes the authority given to the disciples to act as representatives of Christ on earth. Historically, this authority is seen as a continuation of Jesus' ministry, where He often forgave sins, demonstrating His divine authority. The act of forgiving is not merely a human decision but a divine mandate, reflecting the heart of God who desires reconciliation and restoration.

anyone his sins
The term "sins" in Greek is "ἁμαρτίας" (hamartias), which refers to missing the mark or falling short of God's standards. The phrase underscores the universal nature of sin, affecting all humanity. In the Jewish context, sin was understood as a breach of the covenant with God, requiring atonement. The disciples' role in forgiving sins highlights the transition from the Old Covenant, centered on the law and sacrifices, to the New Covenant, centered on grace and the sacrifice of Christ. This authority to forgive sins is rooted in the work of Jesus on the cross, which provides the basis for true forgiveness.

they are forgiven
The passive voice here, "they are forgiven," indicates that the action is performed by God through the disciples. The Greek word "ἀφέωνται" (apheōntai) suggests a completed action with ongoing results. This reflects the permanence and completeness of divine forgiveness. In the early church, this was understood as part of the apostolic authority, which was passed down through the laying on of hands and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The assurance of forgiveness is a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering believers peace and reconciliation with God.

if you withhold forgiveness
The phrase "withhold forgiveness" uses the Greek "κρατῆτε" (kratēte), meaning to hold fast or retain. This implies a deliberate decision not to forgive, which carries significant responsibility. In the historical context, this authority was not to be wielded lightly but with discernment and alignment with God's will. The early church fathers saw this as a call to maintain the purity and holiness of the church, ensuring that forgiveness was granted in accordance with genuine repentance and faith.

from anyone, it is withheld
The phrase "it is withheld" uses the Greek "κεκράτηνται" (kekratēntai), indicating a state of being retained. This highlights the serious nature of unrepentance and the consequences of rejecting God's grace. In the scriptural context, this reflects the balance between God's mercy and justice. The withholding of forgiveness serves as a sobering reminder of the need for genuine repentance and the transformative power of God's grace. It underscores the church's role in upholding the truth of the Gospel while extending grace to those who seek it with a contrite heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The risen Lord who appears to His disciples, granting them authority and commissioning them for their mission.

2. The Disciples
The group of Jesus' followers who are present when He appears to them after His resurrection.

3. Jerusalem
The city where this event takes place, following Jesus' resurrection.

4. The Upper Room
The likely location where the disciples are gathered when Jesus appears to them.

5. The Resurrection
The pivotal event of Jesus rising from the dead, which precedes this appearance and commission.

Teaching Points

Authority from Christ
Jesus grants His disciples authority to forgive sins, indicating the significant role of the Church in the ministry of reconciliation.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
This authority is given in the context of Jesus breathing the Holy Spirit on the disciples (John 20:22), highlighting the Spirit's empowerment in this ministry.

Forgiveness and Community
The passage underscores the importance of forgiveness within the Christian community, reflecting God's forgiveness towards us.

Responsibility and Discernment
With authority comes responsibility; the disciples must exercise discernment in forgiving or withholding forgiveness.

The Gospel Message
The authority to forgive sins is tied to the proclamation of the Gospel, emphasizing the need for repentance and faith in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the authority to forgive sins given to the disciples in John 20:23 relate to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20?

2. In what ways can the Church today exercise the authority to forgive sins, and what are the implications for church leadership?

3. How does the concept of forgiveness in John 20:23 connect with Jesus' teaching on forgiveness in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:12)?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the disciples' ability to forgive sins, and how can believers today rely on the Spirit in this ministry?

5. How can understanding the authority to forgive sins impact our personal relationships and interactions within the Christian community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 16:19
Jesus gives Peter the keys of the kingdom, indicating authority to bind and loose, which parallels the authority to forgive or withhold forgiveness.

Matthew 18:18
Jesus speaks to His disciples about binding and loosing, which is similar to the authority given in John 20:23.

Luke 24:47
Jesus instructs that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, emphasizing the role of the disciples in the forgiveness of sins.

Acts 2:38
Peter preaches about repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins, showing the practical application of the authority given by Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:18-20
Paul speaks of the ministry of reconciliation, which aligns with the disciples' role in forgiving sins.