If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld." Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of John 20:23? 2. How does John 20:23 relate to the authority given to the apostles? 3. What does "forgive the sins" imply about the church's role in reconciliation? 4. How can believers today apply the principle of forgiveness from John 20:23? 5. What Old Testament passages connect with the authority to forgive sins? 6. How does John 20:23 influence our understanding of confession and absolution? 7. How does John 20:23 support the authority of church leaders to forgive sins? 8. Does John 20:23 imply that humans can withhold God's forgiveness? 9. How is the power to forgive sins in John 20:23 understood theologically? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from John 20? 11. Is confessing sins to a priest biblically supported? 12. What are plenary indulgences? 13. Why do we find no historical record to support Jesus’s promise of the apostles sitting on thrones to judge Israel (Matthew 19:28)? 14. What defines Novatianism in early Christian history? Discussion 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?1. How does the resurrection narrative in John 20 deepen your understanding of the Gospel? 2. What can we learn about faith from Mary Magdalene's encounter with the resurrected Jesus? 3. How does Jesus' interaction with His disciples help us understand His mission for us today? 4. Why do you think Thomas doubted the resurrection of Jesus, and what does his story teach us about faith and doubt? 5. How can you relate to Thomas' need for tangible proof in your own faith journey? 6. How does Jesus' commission to His disciples relate to our calling as Christians in the world today? 7. What is the significance of Jesus showing His wounds to His disciples after His resurrection? 8. How does John 20 address the theme of faith, especially in difficult or doubtful situations? 9. What lessons can we draw from John's purpose in writing his Gospel? 10. What does it mean for you personally to have "life in His name" as John 20:31 suggests? 11. How does the resurrection of Jesus bring hope to your current circumstances? 12. In what ways does Jesus' peace, as He offered His disciples, speak to your life today? 13. How does the transformation of the disciples from fear to boldness inspire you? 14. How does understanding Jesus' resurrection influence your view of death and eternal life? 15. How can you carry the message of Jesus' resurrection and life to those around you in your daily life? 16. What steps can you take when you're in a 'Thomas moment' of doubt in your life? 17. How does Jesus' command to Mary Magdalene not to cling to Him impact your understanding of change and growth in spiritual life? 18. In what ways can you apply the teachings of this chapter in dealing with fear, doubt, and uncertainty in your life? 19. What change does the revelation of the resurrected Jesus bring to your life, similar to how it changed the lives of the disciples? 20. How can you practically embody the commission Jesus gives to His disciples in your personal and community life? Links John 20:23 NIVJohn 20:23 NLT John 20:23 ESV John 20:23 NASB John 20:23 KJV John 20:23 Commentaries Bible Hub |



