New Testament
John 20:22
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And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.
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And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:
What John 20:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus appears to His disciples after His resurrection and gives them a significant gift: the Holy Spirit. By breathing on them, He symbolizes the impartation of divine life and empowerment. This act signifies the beginning of their mission to spread the Gospel. The Holy Spirit is essential for guiding, teaching, and empowering believers in their faith. This moment marks a transition for the disciples, as they move from fear and uncertainty to being filled with the Spirit, ready to fulfill their calling. The phrase 'Receive the Holy Spirit' indicates that the Spirit is a gift that enables them to carry out the work of God. This event emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, as He provides strength, wisdom, and comfort. It also highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers, as He directly imparts this gift to them, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges ahead.
How to apply John 20:22 to your life
As believers, we should seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit daily. This empowers us to live out our faith, share the Gospel, and navigate life's challenges. We can pray for guidance and strength, trusting that the Holy Spirit is with us, just as He was with the early disciples.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Appears to His Disciples (John 20:19–23)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 20:22 mean?
John 20:22 describes Jesus breathing on His disciples and telling them to receive the Holy Spirit. This act symbolizes the impartation of divine life and empowerment, marking the beginning of their mission to spread the Gospel.
What is the significance of the Holy Spirit in John 20:22?
In John 20:22, the Holy Spirit is given as a gift to the disciples, enabling them to carry out God's work. The Holy Spirit provides guidance, strength, and comfort, essential for their mission.
What does 'Receive the Holy Spirit' mean in John 20:22?
The phrase 'Receive the Holy Spirit' in John 20:22 indicates that the Holy Spirit is a divine gift given to the disciples. It signifies empowerment for their mission and a deeper relationship with Jesus.
How can we apply John 20:22 in our lives?
We can apply John 20:22 by seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit daily. This empowers us to live out our faith and share the Gospel, trusting in the Spirit's guidance and strength.
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