The Forgiveness of Sins

(Plain Text Version)

The Church Continues the Work of Christ

Here is a summary of human history: In Adam, we lost our friendship with God; in Christ our friendship was restored and renewed.

At the command of Christ, the Church carries out this mission of mercy.

Jesus Had Authority to Forgive Sins

We see many cases of Jesus forgiving sins on his own authority (see Mark 2:5, Luke 7:48).  This was upsetting for the Pharisees and Scribes, who saw Him as a mere man.  They thought that it would be impossible for God to give this power to one of His creatures.

God Forgives Sins Through His Church

Christ commanded the Apostles to continue His ministry of forgiveness in all places until the end of time.  Speaking to the Apostles on Easter Sunday.  He said to them:

“Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:46-47). 

And He gave them to power to forgive sins with the words:

“Receive the Holy Spirit.  If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.” (John 20:22-23).

Forgiveness: A Great Gift from God

When we make use of God’s plan for the forgiveness of sins, we have the comfort of knowing that life’s biggest problem is solved!   

Many thanks to: Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J., Pocket Catholic Catechism, 1989, Doubleday

Scripture: English Standard Version Catholic Edition, 2017, Good News Publishers      

A few notes:

Two spiritual giants have recently left us:

Pope Benedict XVI, who was on fire with the love of God, and spread this enthusiasm through his many books.  They are not difficult to read!  Also, Benedict XVI cleaned up the Church’s rules for dealing with sexual abuse by clergy.  While this tragedy is far from resolved, it is much harder for perpetrators to hide.

George Cardinal Pell taught the true faith fearlessly, facilitated the World Youth Day in Australia, and helped reform the Vatican finances.  He spent time in prison after incredible charges of sexual abuse were made.  He was later acquitted.

As you may have noticed, I haven’t been posting articles very often.  This is partly due to my long recovery from COVID-19.  I am doing much better now.  Thank you for staying with us.