Expert: Edward Bode - 12/25/2010

Question
"The bible is clear on Jesus' imparting to the apostles the power to forgive sins."

Those are your words from an answer you wrote to someone, PLEASE tell me where the bible says that the apostles had the "power to forgive sins"????????????

It is my understanding that ONLY God has the power to forgive sins. That is why we ask for forgiveness to God and God only. No man can forgive our sins, unless we are talking about the man of Christ. I am really concerned for you catholics, you are glorifying man in everything you do. Worshiping idols, and blaspheming God, I will be praying more and more for catholics from now on. God Bless and have mercies on you all!

Again, please give me the verse where Jesus imparts the "power to forgive sins" to the apostles. Thank you very much for your time in answering this.

Answer
You are correct [Mt 1:22, Mk 2:5 ff] that only God [and the divine Jesus]can forgive sins, which are affront to Him.  
The clearest biblical passage for Jesus imparting His power to forgive sins to the apostles is John 20:19-23.  
As you comment, worhsip of idols would be an abomination.  However, Catholics use images to help concentrate our senses on Jesus and on His followers, whose lives showed their special allegiance to Him and His teachings.  The discussion, debate, and confirmation of a positive decision about images came about the 8th century AD.
Best wishes, Beth, for a blessed Christmas season.
If you wish further comments, please feel free to write again.