Breathed on them] The word for 'breath' and 'spirit' is the same in Gk. By this action our Lord showed how closely the Holy Spirit is connected with His person, being in fact 'the spirit of Jesus.' The Church has never ventured to imitate this action, but has substituted in ordination the laying-on of hands.

Receive ye the Holy Ghost] i.e. for the purpose of consecration to the ministerial office. The Spirit was undoubtedly given at this time; and yet, we must suppose, not in its full power till Pentecost: see John 7:39; John 16:7.

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