John 20:23 says, “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” With the 10 disciples in the upper room the evening he rose from the dead, Jesus first said “peace” to them (v. 19, 21). Second he said he was sending them like the Father sent him (v. 21). Third, he breathed on them and told them to “receive the Holy Spirit” (v. 22) when he comes. Here he says their position on others’ sins, either forgiveness or retention, represents the Father’s position. They were sent like Jesus was sent. He spoke for the Father, so will they once they receive the Spirit. They are to give God’s assurance of forgiveness to those who sought it and retention to those who haven’t. This is the difference the gospel makes. Let’s make sure God’s assurance rings clear today..