Expert: Quentin Parker - 9/28/2010

Question
We know only God can forgive sins yet isn't John 20:23 clearly
says that Apostles were given this authority?

Answer
Hello Nihal,

Thank-you for your question.

You’re right: Scripture is quite clear on the fact that God alone can forgive sins.  "The Pharisees and the teachers of the law began thinking to themselves, "Who is this fellow who speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Luke 5:21)

Nowhere in the New Testament do we see the apostles forgiving anyone’s sins. So I believe that this statement has reference to the fruit of their ministry. Because of their proclamation of the gospel many would hear it, accept it, repent of their sins, and be forgiven. Only through their message could forgiveness of sin be found.

Some believe that it refers to the consequences of sinful living – that the apostles could intercede on sinners behalf to alleviate the temporal punishments of sin or allow people to feel the consequences of sin in the hope of bringing them to repentance. I’m more doubtful that this interpretation is the correct one, however.

Thanks again for the question. I hope you find this helpful.

God bless!
Quentin Parker