Embracing Doubt: Thomas' Journey to Faith
Summary
Summary
The story of Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas,” is far richer and more complex than his nickname suggests. Thomas was not simply a skeptic; he was a deeply committed disciple, willing to follow Jesus even into danger and death. His questions and doubts were not signs of weak faith, but of a practical, honest, and earnest desire to understand and follow Jesus. When Thomas missed Jesus’ first resurrection appearance, his reaction was not so different from the other disciples, who also struggled to believe until they saw Jesus themselves. Thomas’ insistence on seeing and touching Jesus’ wounds was a demand for real evidence, a desire to know the truth for himself.
Jesus’ response to Thomas is marked by profound mercy and tenderness. Rather than rebuking Thomas harshly, Jesus invites him to touch his wounds, meeting Thomas exactly where he is in his struggle. This act of grace is not just for Thomas, but for all who wrestle with doubt. Jesus’ willingness to expose his wounds is a powerful demonstration of his love and patience, showing that honest doubt is not condemned but gently guided toward faith.
Thomas’ ultimate confession, “My Lord and my God,” stands as the highest declaration of faith in the Gospel of John. In that moment, Thomas moves from doubt to worship, recognizing Jesus’ true identity. Jesus then pronounces a blessing on all who believe without seeing, extending grace to every future believer who would trust the apostolic witness rather than their own eyes. This is the foundation of Christian faith: trusting the testimony of those who saw the risen Christ, even when we ourselves have not.
Doubt, then, is not the enemy of faith but can be a doorway to deeper understanding and trust. Honest questions, when brought into the light of Christ’s wounds and the community of believers, can lead to a more robust and personal faith. The story of Thomas encourages us to bring our doubts to Jesus, to trust the witness of those who have gone before us, and to find blessing in believing even when we have not seen.
---
Key Takeaways
- Thomas’ Doubt Was Honest, Not Deficient
Thomas’ so-called “doubt” was not a sign of spiritual failure, but of a practical, earnest desire to know the truth. He was a disciple marked by courage and commitment, willing to follow Jesus into danger. His questions were honest, and his skepticism was shared by the other disciples before they saw the risen Christ. This reminds us that honest doubt is not a weakness, but can be a part of genuine discipleship. [11:25]
- Jesus Meets Us in Our Doubt with Mercy
Jesus’ response to Thomas is not one of anger or disappointment, but of gentle invitation. He offers Thomas exactly what he needs—an opportunity to see and touch his wounds. This act of condescension and grace shows that Jesus is patient with our struggles and meets us where we are, inviting us to move from disbelief to belief. [17:25]
- Faith Is Rooted in the Testimony of Others
Most of us, like Thomas, are not eyewitnesses to the resurrection. Jesus pronounces a special blessing on those who believe without seeing, affirming that faith often comes through trusting the testimony of others. The apostolic witness, recorded in Scripture, is the foundation upon which our faith rests, and it is both reasonable and normal to trust reliable witnesses. [22:53]
- Doubt Can Be a Doorway to Deeper Faith
Doubt is not inherently sinful or dangerous; it can be a catalyst for growth when handled honestly. There are honest doubts that lead us to seek truth, and dishonest doubts that serve as excuses. When we bring our questions into the light of Christ’s wounds and the community of faith, doubt becomes a doorway to discovery and deeper trust in God. [28:23]
- Jesus’ Wounds Are the Answer to Our Deepest Questions
The clarity Thomas found came not from abstract arguments, but from encountering the wounded, risen Christ. Jesus’ willingness to show his scars is a reminder that our faith is anchored in a Savior who suffered for us and overcame death. In our own seasons of questioning, we are invited to look to Jesus’ wounds and trust the witness of those transformed by his resurrection. [29:07]
---
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[06:50] - The Story That Changed Joey’s Life
[07:34] - Jesus’ Invitation to Thomas
[08:28] - Three Perspectives: Thomas, Jesus, and Us
[10:19] - Thomas: The Practical Disciple
[11:25] - The Reality of Doubt Among the Disciples
[12:20] - Thomas’ Absence and Honest Skepticism
[13:21] - Jesus’ First Appearance and the Disciples’ Doubt
[14:17] - The Normalcy of Doubt and Jesus’ Repeated Appearances
[15:07] - Thomas’ Confession and Jesus’ Mercy
[17:25] - Jesus’ Tenderness Toward Doubt
[18:12] - The Grace of Meeting Thomas’ Needs
[18:58] - The Majesty of Jesus and Thomas’ Declaration
[20:23] - The Climax of John’s Gospel
[21:56] - Blessed Are Those Who Believe Without Seeing
[22:53] - The Apostolic Witness and Our Faith
[24:35] - The Foundation of the Church
[26:23] - Trusting the Testimony of the Apostles
[27:47] - The Nature and Value of Doubt
[28:23] - Honest Doubt as a Gift
[29:07] - Trusting Jesus Through the Witness of Others
[30:31] - Prayer for Help in Our Doubts
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Story of Thomas and Honest Doubt
---
### Bible Reading
John 20:24-31 (ESV)
24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
---
### Observation Questions
1. What was Thomas’ reaction when the other disciples told him they had seen the risen Jesus? ([06:50])
2. How did Jesus respond to Thomas’ request for proof when he appeared to the disciples again? ([17:25])
3. What did Thomas declare when he finally saw Jesus, and how did Jesus respond to that declaration? ([18:58])
4. According to the passage, why were these stories about Jesus written down? ([20:23])
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says Thomas’ doubt was “honest, not deficient.” What does it mean for doubt to be honest, and how is that different from a lack of faith? ([11:25])
2. Jesus invited Thomas to touch his wounds instead of rebuking him. What does this reveal about how Jesus treats those who struggle with doubt? ([17:25])
3. Jesus says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” What does this say about the kind of faith Jesus values, and how does it relate to us today? ([21:56])
4. The sermon mentions that faith is often rooted in the testimony of others. Why is it important to trust the witness of those who saw Jesus, and how does that shape our own faith? ([22:53])
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon points out that all the disciples doubted until they saw Jesus. When have you experienced doubt in your faith, and how did you handle it? Did you feel alone in your doubt, or did you share it with others? ([13:21])
2. Thomas was honest about his need for evidence. Are there questions or doubts about faith that you have been afraid to voice? What would it look like to bring those doubts into the open, either with God or with trusted friends? ([12:20])
3. Jesus met Thomas right where he was, with mercy and patience. How can you show that same kind of patience and grace to someone in your life who is struggling with doubt or questions about faith? ([17:25])
4. The sermon says that doubt can be a doorway to deeper faith if we bring it into the light of Christ and the community. What practical steps can you take to process your doubts in a healthy way, rather than hiding or ignoring them? ([28:23])
5. Jesus’ wounds were the answer to Thomas’ deepest questions. When you face hard questions or struggles, what helps you remember the reality of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection? ([29:07])
6. Most of us have not seen Jesus with our own eyes, but we are called to trust the testimony of others. Is there a story or testimony from another believer that has helped strengthen your faith? How can you share your own story to encourage someone else? ([22:53])
7. The sermon encourages us to “question our questions” and “doubt our doubts.” Is there a doubt or question you have that you want to bring to Jesus this week? What would it look like to invite Him into that struggle? ([30:31])
---
Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to help you be honest about your doubts, to meet you with mercy like He did with Thomas, and to help you trust the witness of those who have gone before you. Pray for courage to bring your questions into the light and for faith to say, “My Lord and my God.”
Devotional
Day 1: Courageous Faith Seeks Truth Through Honest Doubt
Thomas’ doubt was not a failure of faith but a sincere and practical desire to understand the truth. He was a disciple who demonstrated courage and commitment, willing to follow Jesus even into danger. His questions were not signs of weakness but reflections of an earnest heart seeking clarity. Like Thomas, many believers wrestle with doubts, and this is a normal part of the journey toward deeper faith. Recognizing doubt as a natural and honest response can help you embrace your questions without shame or fear.
When you face uncertainty, remember that even the closest followers of Jesus struggled to believe until they encountered Him personally. Doubt can be a sign of genuine discipleship, inviting you to engage more deeply with your faith rather than retreat from it. [11:25]
“Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.’” — John 20:24-25
Reflection: What is one honest question or doubt you have about your faith that you have been hesitant to bring before God or others? How might you begin to bring that question into the light today?
Day 2: Jesus’ Grace Meets Us Where Doubt Lives
Jesus’ response to Thomas was marked by mercy and tenderness rather than rebuke. Instead of condemning Thomas for his skepticism, Jesus invited him to touch His wounds, meeting him exactly where he was in his struggle. This shows that Jesus is patient with our doubts and desires to guide us gently from disbelief to belief. His grace is not only for Thomas but for all who wrestle with uncertainty.
When you find yourself doubting, remember that Jesus does not reject you but invites you into a deeper encounter with His love and truth. He meets you in your questions and offers the evidence and reassurance you need, not to shame you but to draw you closer. [17:25]
“Jesus said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.’” — John 20:27
Reflection: In what ways can you invite Jesus to meet you in your current doubts instead of pushing them away? What might it look like to receive His grace in your uncertainty today?
Day 3: Faith Grows by Trusting the Witness of Others
Most believers, like Thomas, are not eyewitnesses to the resurrection. Jesus pronounces a blessing on those who believe without seeing, affirming that faith often comes through trusting the testimony of others. The apostolic witness recorded in Scripture is the foundation of Christian faith. Trusting reliable witnesses is both reasonable and normal, and it connects you to a community of faith that spans generations.
Your faith is not built on blind belief but on the trustworthy testimony of those who encountered the risen Christ. Embracing this truth allows you to stand firm even when you cannot see with your own eyes. [22:53]
“Therefore we have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf.” — Hebrews 6:19-20
Reflection: Who are the faithful witnesses in your life or in church history whose testimony strengthens your faith? How can you intentionally lean on their witness when your own doubts arise?
Day 4: Doubt Can Open Doors to Deeper Trust
Doubt is not inherently sinful or harmful; it can be a catalyst for spiritual growth when approached honestly. There are doubts that lead to seeking truth and those that serve as excuses. When you bring your questions into the light of Christ’s wounds and the community of believers, doubt becomes a doorway to discovery and deeper trust in God.
Rather than fearing doubt, you can learn to welcome it as an opportunity to explore your faith more deeply. Honest questioning invites God’s truth to transform your heart and mind, leading you into a more robust and personal relationship with Him. [28:23]
“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” — Psalm 139:23-24
Reflection: What doubts or questions have you been avoiding that might actually lead you to a deeper understanding of God? How can you bring these honestly before God and trusted believers this week?
Day 5: Jesus’ Wounds Reveal the Depth of His Love
Thomas found clarity not through abstract arguments but by encountering the wounded, risen Christ. Jesus’ willingness to show His scars reminds us that our faith is anchored in a Savior who suffered for us and conquered death. In seasons of questioning, you are invited to look to Jesus’ wounds and trust the witness of those transformed by His resurrection.
The scars of Christ are a powerful testimony to His love, patience, and victory. They invite you to place your trust in a Savior who understands your struggles intimately and who offers healing and hope through His sacrifice. [29:07]
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” — 1 Peter 2:24
Reflection: How can meditating on Jesus’ wounds help you face your doubts with hope and trust? What practical step can you take today to focus your faith on the reality of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection?
Quotes
Now, Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book, but these are written for you. These episodes, everything that's happened in John so far is written for you so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, you may have life in his name. [00:08:07] (21 seconds)
This passage is in some ways about doubt, infamously about doubting Thomas, but it's really not just about doubt. It's about belief and who we believe and who in we believe. [00:09:14] (20 seconds)
And so I don't like doubting Thomas. I like Ernest Thomas or Honest Thomas or Engineer Scientist Thomas or, you know, another thing of Thomas. I'm not trying to take away the doubt. I just don't think it's fair to him that that's the only thing that exists in him. But what we'll see about Thomas is that Ernest, Honest, Engineer, Scientist, he'll become the person who gives the most unequivocally clear presentation of who Jesus is. And that's a beautiful thing. And it's precisely the point of the story that Thomas, even in his doubt, Jesus shows up to guide and to love him. So, that's Thomas. Let's talk about Jesus. [00:14:45] (57 seconds)
Put out your hand and place it in my side to touch these things. Do not disbelieve, but believe. this overwhelming kindness in the struggle of this man's doubt. Some try to read it as a harsh rebuke, but it makes no sense in the text or the context. Jesus does address his doubts. He says, do not disbelieve, believe. His fears, and if his personality was despondent and all that stuff, but the first thing he does is give him exactly what he was asking for. What kind of grace is that? Go ahead, touch me. Touch my wounds. [00:17:25] (55 seconds)
John records John records an almost verbatim statement of what Thomas had told the other disciples. And I don't know if Jesus had met with those other disciples somewhere in the eight days or Jesus just knew it because he's the son of God and God himself. But this is mercy beyond measure. Jesus just rose from the dead, y 'all. In it, he received the full vindication of his life and his death. In it, he received all glory and honor from the Father. Through it, he would be called King of the creation and Lord of all, of which every knee would bow. And he does not respond with a touchdown dance. He responds with coming down and meeting Thomas where he is. [00:18:20] (52 seconds)
It is the highest confession of faith in all of Scripture. My Lord and my God. It's an unambiguous declaration that Jesus is God, my God. The yielding to the sovereignty of Jesus over His life. This is where Thomas bends the knee and says, you are my Lord. this is also the clear climax of the Gospel of John. This vignette about Thomas is actually all about Jesus. And scholars all agree that after 20, everything else afterward is like the denouement, the after explanation of things that happened. But this is it because John 3, 16 and John 1 and everything that's happened before this is pointing to the reality that God became man in the person of Jesus. This is the culmination, the climax of the Gospel of John and the clearest declaration from a doubting man to the world. [00:20:10] (65 seconds)
Look, y 'all, there are plenty of times in Scripture where an angel will show up and people start bowing the knee and start to worship and the angel's like, nah, I ain't mean. In Acts, the disciples are doing miracles and stuff and people start laying down and all this like, no, we're just men of flesh, we're just like you, we're talking about God, don't do any idolatrous acts here. But when Thomas says, my Lord and my God, Jesus receives it. So Jesus was either the most arrogant, blaspheming human that ever walked the earth or he was what Thomas said he was, his Lord and his God and our Lord and our God. He doesn't rebuke Thomas' declaration, he receives it because he is Lord and God and then Jesus responds with further mercy for all of us. [00:21:16] (54 seconds)
Blessed are those who have not seen me and yet have believed. believed. This is Joey's point. This is the point of John as it works out. This is the hope for us. And so we move from Thomas, Jesus, to us. It's us and our relationship with Jesus. Hear what Jesus said. Those of you who believe, you are blessed to believe and not have seen. It's a benediction for all who lived after those 40 days or weren't there or around him when he lived in those 40 days that all who would trust the testimony of the apostles, of his resurrected body, would be blessed. blessed. [00:22:14] (59 seconds)
And it's built into us. It's just the kind of doubt we need. And we should not crush our doubts. Yes, doubts can be the way we hide our disappointment and our risk to follow Jesus. And we should repent of that. It can be a way we avoid claims about God who is our Lord over our bodies and our bank accounts. But doubt is also a doorway of discovery. Honest doubt is a gift. But it's a gift to be received in the light of the testimony of the apostles. Thomas. That Jesus is my Lord and my God and I know he's my Lord and my God because I can see his wounds. Because he's not doing a touchdown dance. He's not just Lord and God but he is the suffering savior. [00:28:36] (60 seconds)
The vast majority of our knowledge is because someone told us and they saw. That's a normal way of knowing and that's what John is doing here that you can trust Jesus because of the way he loved and transformed Thomas' doubt. the way he showed up for Thomas and the way he blesses all those who believe in Thomas' ultimate declaration my Lord and my God. [00:30:45] (33 seconds)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Apr 27, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?