In this passage, we read about Thomas and what he needed to come to a place of belief that Jesus had risen from the dead. Thomas appears as a loyal, outspoken, devoted and courageous, as well as rather pessimistic and one who was uncertain of the future but closely attached to Jesus. Despite repeated assurances that Jesus had risen, Thomas was firm. He would only be satisfied with material evidence. This adds to the testimony that the resurrection appearances were not illusions induced by wishful thinking. As you read this story, what do you notice within yourself?
John 20:24-29
Now Thomas (also known as Didymus ), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
• What did you hear as you read the Word?
• Have you ever felt like Thomas – longing to know what is true, but not wanting to be duped?
• What gives credibility to the Bible story?
• How do you know what is true?
• How have you experienced belief and trust in who Christ is? Where are you with that?
• What do you believe is true?
• Would you invite the Spirit of Truth to bring you to truth and peace?
• How do you discern what is true?
Posted on
Sun, April 25, 2010
by RMI