Today we are reading John 20. In this chapter we read about Jesus’ resurrection and appearance to the disciples and Mary Magdalene. “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.””
John 20:19-23 ESV In this passage Jesus gives to the disciples the honor and authority to forgive the sins of believers. This was one of the first things He said to them after His resurrection. Why do you think this was so important to Jesus? In our tradition we give this authority to the pastor, as Jesus’ representative. Next time you worship, pay special attention to the pastor’s words after the confession of sins. God bless you and keep you in His grace. Pastor Tim
