[metmom]

whose sin you shall forgive, they shall be forgiven, whose sins you shall retain, they are retained what do you suppose that means??????

What it doesn't mean is that a priest has the power to retain someone's sins. Cause if he does, then you have to explain away this verse about GOD forgiving our sins.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

[terycarl]

What it doesn't mean is that a priest has the power to retain someone's sins. Cause if he does, then you have to explain away this verse about GOD forgiving our sins. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

ah yes, but the priest can determine whether or not the person is sincere.....if the person stole something and the priest told him to return the item and he refused.....was he sincere in asking forgiveness of his sin?????