The Bible teaches that, while He was on earth, Jesus had power to forgive people of their sins. He exercised this power at different times for different reasons.

On one occasion, Jesus forgave a woman of her sins because of her faith. "Then He said to her, 'Your sins are forgiven... Your faith has saved you. Go in peace'" (Luke 7:48, 50).

On another occasion, Jesus forgave a man of his sins because of the faith of his friends. "Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you'" (Matt. 9:2).

On yet another occasion, Jesus was willing to forgive the rich young ruler of his sins if he would sell what he had, give it to the poor, and follow Him. The young man was unwilling to comply with the Lord's command, but the offer was made (Matt. 19:16-22).

Indeed, Jesus has power on earth to forgive sins. He did so at His own discretion - whenever, however, and to whomever He chose. However, everything changed when Jesus died on the cross.

When Jesus died, His will went into effect (Heb. 9:15-17). Before Jesus ascended into Heaven, He commissioned His apostles to take the gospel into the whole world. When we compare these accounts (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47), we see that Jesus commanded belief, repentance, and baptism as conditions for salvation. These are the stipulations of His will that are in effect today.

Jesus has the power to forgive you of your sins, but you must meet these conditions in order to be forgiven. Don't try to be saved like the woman, the paralytic, the rich young ruler, the thief on the cross, etc. They were offered forgiveness before the Lord died on the cross. Your forgiveness is found in obeying the gospel. Please do so today.