MPV Commentary

Jesus Appears to the Assembled Disciples.

On that same day at evening, the first day of the week, Jesus appeared to the disciples who were gathered together in a locked room, fearful of the Jews. He entered through an unusual means, not by the ordinary door.

To them he said, "Peace be with you." This was more than just a wish for their well-being; it was a gift that brought peace into their hearts, just as he had opened their understanding to comprehend the Scriptures (Luke 24:45).

When Jesus finished speaking, he showed them his hands and side. This tangible evidence of his resurrection not only proved its reality but also served as a means of imparting his peace to others through "the power of that resurrection" (Luke 24:37-43).

The disciples were overjoyed at seeing the Lord.

Jesus then said, "Peace be with you. Just as my Father sent me, I am sending you." This was an extension of the mission he had received from his Father (John 17:18).

Next, Jesus breathed on them, symbolizing the gift of the Holy Spirit. He instructed them to receive the Holy Spirit, which would serve as a down payment for the more extensive outpouring at Pentecost.

Finally, Jesus said, "Whose sins you forgive are forgiven; whose sins you retain are retained." This power was never exercised by the apostles in an authoritative sense and was not understood by them to be a direct delegation of authority. Rather, it was a ministerial or declarative role as authorized interpreters of his word (Matthew 16:19). The true nature of this power is seen in the exercise of church discipline.