PONDERING... A Few Observations on John 20:19-23

BARE-BARE BONES NOTES

A Few Observations on John 20:19-23

John 20:19-23  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."  20  When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.  21  Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you."  22  And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit.  23  If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld."

Peace

Peace be with you was a common greeting used when arriving and leaving. Thus, we likely have a very condensed version of a much longer meeting. Furthermore, it is significant that Jesus had promised them peace (John 14:27, 16:33..etc), and now brings  it through His resurrection.

Spirit

They received the Spirit not for salvation (they were already saved), but for equipping in service. Also,this is a sign of new life, like the breath breathed into Adam (the word for spirit and breath are the same).

Commission 

As the Father sent- to save the world from sin. We don’t save the world, but we tell them how they can be saved. To reflect the glory and character of God. To lead by example. To teach boldly.

Forgiveness

Not priestly absolution, but the power of the Gospel. The same is true of us. When we preach or share the gospel, we are proclaiming this truth. If someone repents and believes, give Jesus control of their life, they are forgiven and will be saved. If not, there is no forgiveness. We should not take lightly this responsibility.