Thomas: From Doubt to Deepened Faith
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we delved into the life and character of the Apostle Thomas, often labeled as "Doubting Thomas." This label, however, is somewhat unfair as all the disciples experienced doubt at various points. Thomas' journey with Jesus reveals three significant dimensions of his character: the cross-bearer, the honest voice, and the believing doubter.
Thomas, the cross-bearer, demonstrated remarkable loyalty and willingness to die with Jesus. When Jesus decided to return to Judea despite the danger, Thomas was the one who voiced his readiness to go and die with Him. This showed his deep commitment and understanding of Jesus' mission, even if it was tinged with a bit of pessimism.
As the honest voice, Thomas was unafraid to ask the questions that others were too scared to voice. In John 14, when Jesus spoke about going to prepare a place for them, it was Thomas who asked, "Lord, we don't know where you're going. How do we know the way?" This question led to one of Jesus' most profound statements: "I am the way, the truth, and the life."
Finally, we explored Thomas as the believing doubter. After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas needed tangible proof to believe. When Jesus appeared to him and invited him to touch His wounds, Thomas' response was immediate and profound: "My Lord and my God." This confession went beyond any previous declarations of faith by the other disciples, acknowledging Jesus' divinity.
Thomas' story teaches us that doubt is not the enemy of faith but can be a catalyst for deeper belief. His journey from doubt to faith is a powerful reminder that Jesus meets us in our doubts and reveals Himself to us, leading us to a more profound and unwavering faith.
### Key Takeaways
1. Thomas the Cross-Bearer: Thomas' willingness to die with Jesus highlights his deep loyalty and commitment. Unlike Peter, who rebuked Jesus, or James and John, who sought positions of power, Thomas understood the gravity of Jesus' mission and was ready to follow Him to the end. This teaches us the importance of being willing to bear our own crosses in our journey of faith. [45:46]
2. The Honest Voice: Thomas' question in John 14, "Lord, we don't know where you're going. How do we know the way?" shows his courage to seek clarity. His transparency and willingness to voice his doubts led to one of Jesus' most profound revelations. This reminds us that asking honest questions is crucial for spiritual growth and understanding. [52:00]
3. Believing Doubter: Thomas' demand for tangible proof of Jesus' resurrection and his subsequent declaration, "My Lord and my God," illustrates that doubt can lead to a deeper and more personal faith. His story encourages us to bring our doubts to Jesus, trusting that He will meet us and strengthen our belief. [58:34]
4. Faith and Doubt Coexist: The journey of Thomas shows that faith and doubt are not mutually exclusive. Doubt can be a part of the faith journey, prompting us to seek deeper understanding and stronger belief. This is a comforting reminder that our moments of doubt do not disqualify us from being faithful followers of Christ. [01:01:28]
5. The Role of the Squeaky Wheel: Thomas' role as the one who asks the uncomfortable questions is vital in any community. His willingness to voice doubts and seek clarity helps prevent a herd mentality and encourages deeper exploration of faith. This teaches us the value of having individuals who are not afraid to question and seek truth within our faith communities. [54:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[25:00] - Introduction to Thomas
[25:44] - Series on the Apostles
[26:22] - The Role of Doubt
[27:56] - Philosophical Perspectives on Doubt
[29:34] - Seeking Truth
[30:43] - Thomas in the Bible
[32:37] - Thomas' Interactions with Jesus
[34:14] - Thomas' Background
[36:05] - Thomas' Reputation
[37:12] - Thomas the Cross-Bearer
[45:46] - Thomas' Loyalty
[47:57] - Thomas the Honest Voice
[52:00] - Asking the Uncomfortable Questions
[57:07] - Thomas the Believing Doubter
[01:01:28] - Faith and Doubt Coexist
[01:05:50] - Thomas' Legacy
[01:12:24] - Closing Hymn
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 11:7-16 - Thomas' willingness to die with Jesus.
2. John 14:1-6 - Thomas' question and Jesus' profound response.
3. John 20:24-29 - Thomas' doubt and his declaration of faith.
### Observation Questions
1. What was Thomas' reaction when Jesus decided to return to Judea despite the danger? (John 11:16)
2. In John 14, what question did Thomas ask Jesus, and what was Jesus' response? (John 14:5-6)
3. How did Thomas respond when he saw the resurrected Jesus and was invited to touch His wounds? (John 20:28)
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Thomas' willingness to die with Jesus in John 11:16 reveal about his character and understanding of Jesus' mission? [45:46]
2. How does Thomas' question in John 14:5-6 demonstrate his need for clarity and understanding, and what does Jesus' response teach us about the way to God? [52:00]
3. In John 20:24-29, how does Thomas' demand for tangible proof and his subsequent declaration of faith illustrate the relationship between doubt and belief? [58:34]
### Application Questions
1. Thomas was willing to die with Jesus, showing deep loyalty and commitment. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you need to show more commitment to your faith, even if it involves personal sacrifice? [45:46]
2. Thomas asked the questions others were afraid to voice. Are there doubts or questions about your faith that you have been hesitant to ask? How can you create a safe space to explore these questions within your small group or church community? [52:00]
3. Thomas' journey from doubt to faith was profound. Think about a time when you experienced doubt in your faith. How did you overcome it, and what did you learn from that experience? [58:34]
4. The sermon highlighted that faith and doubt can coexist. How can you embrace your doubts as opportunities for deeper understanding and stronger belief? [01:01:28]
5. Thomas' role as the "squeaky wheel" was vital in seeking truth. In your faith community, how can you encourage and support those who ask difficult questions, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued? [54:52]
6. Reflect on the statement, "Doubt is not the enemy of faith but can be a catalyst for deeper belief." How can you apply this perspective to your personal spiritual journey and growth? [01:01:28]
7. Thomas' declaration, "My Lord and my God," was a profound acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity. How can you deepen your own understanding and acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity in your daily life and worship? [58:34]
Devotional
Day 1: Bearing Our Crosses with Commitment
Thomas' willingness to die with Jesus highlights his deep loyalty and commitment. Unlike Peter, who rebuked Jesus, or James and John, who sought positions of power, Thomas understood the gravity of Jesus' mission and was ready to follow Him to the end. This teaches us the importance of being willing to bear our own crosses in our journey of faith. [45:46]
Thomas, the cross-bearer, demonstrated remarkable loyalty and willingness to die with Jesus. When Jesus decided to return to Judea despite the danger, Thomas was the one who voiced his readiness to go and die with Him. This showed his deep commitment and understanding of Jesus' mission, even if it was tinged with a bit of pessimism. Unlike other disciples who sought power or misunderstood Jesus' mission, Thomas was ready to face the ultimate sacrifice. This teaches us the importance of being willing to bear our own crosses in our journey of faith.
In our own lives, we are often called to bear crosses, whether they be personal sacrifices, challenges, or acts of service. Thomas' example encourages us to embrace these moments with a spirit of loyalty and commitment, understanding that they are part of our journey with Christ. His readiness to follow Jesus to the end, even in the face of danger, serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of commitment that true discipleship requires.
John 11:16 (ESV): "So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, 'Let us also go, that we may die with him.'"
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you feel called to bear a cross? How can you embrace this challenge with the same commitment and loyalty that Thomas showed?
Day 2: The Courage to Ask Honest Questions
Thomas' question in John 14, "Lord, we don't know where you're going. How do we know the way?" shows his courage to seek clarity. His transparency and willingness to voice his doubts led to one of Jesus' most profound revelations. This reminds us that asking honest questions is crucial for spiritual growth and understanding. [52:00]
Thomas was unafraid to ask the questions that others were too scared to voice. In John 14, when Jesus spoke about going to prepare a place for them, it was Thomas who asked, "Lord, we don't know where you're going. How do we know the way?" This question led to one of Jesus' most profound statements: "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Thomas' courage to seek clarity and understanding is a powerful example for us.
In our spiritual journeys, we often encounter moments of confusion or doubt. Thomas' example teaches us that it is okay to ask questions and seek deeper understanding. Honest questions can lead to profound revelations and a stronger faith. By voicing our doubts and seeking answers, we open ourselves to greater spiritual growth and a more intimate relationship with Jesus.
John 14:5-6 (ESV): "Thomas said to him, 'Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?' Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"
Reflection: What is one question or doubt you have about your faith? How can you seek clarity and understanding through prayer, study, or discussion with others?
Day 3: Embracing Doubt as a Path to Deeper Faith
Thomas' demand for tangible proof of Jesus' resurrection and his subsequent declaration, "My Lord and my God," illustrates that doubt can lead to a deeper and more personal faith. His story encourages us to bring our doubts to Jesus, trusting that He will meet us and strengthen our belief. [58:34]
After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas needed tangible proof to believe. When Jesus appeared to him and invited him to touch His wounds, Thomas' response was immediate and profound: "My Lord and my God." This confession went beyond any previous declarations of faith by the other disciples, acknowledging Jesus' divinity. Thomas' journey from doubt to faith is a powerful reminder that Jesus meets us in our doubts and reveals Himself to us, leading us to a more profound and unwavering faith.
Doubt is not the enemy of faith but can be a catalyst for deeper belief. Thomas' story teaches us that it is okay to have doubts and to seek evidence for our faith. Jesus does not condemn us for our doubts but meets us where we are, providing the assurance and proof we need to strengthen our belief. By bringing our doubts to Jesus, we open ourselves to a deeper and more personal relationship with Him.
John 20:27-28 (ESV): "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.' Thomas answered him, 'My Lord and my God!'"
Reflection: What is one doubt you have about your faith? How can you bring this doubt to Jesus and seek His assurance and proof in your life?
Day 4: Faith and Doubt Can Coexist
The journey of Thomas shows that faith and doubt are not mutually exclusive. Doubt can be a part of the faith journey, prompting us to seek deeper understanding and stronger belief. This is a comforting reminder that our moments of doubt do not disqualify us from being faithful followers of Christ. [01:01:28]
Thomas' story teaches us that faith and doubt can coexist. His journey from doubt to faith shows that doubt is not a sign of weak faith but an opportunity for growth. Doubt can prompt us to seek deeper understanding and stronger belief. Thomas' willingness to voice his doubts and seek proof led to a profound declaration of faith, showing that our moments of doubt do not disqualify us from being faithful followers of Christ.
In our own faith journeys, we may experience moments of doubt. These moments can be opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. By embracing our doubts and seeking answers, we can strengthen our faith and develop a more intimate relationship with Jesus. Thomas' story is a comforting reminder that doubt is a natural part of the faith journey and can lead to a more profound and unwavering belief.
Mark 9:24 (ESV): "Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, 'I believe; help my unbelief!'"
Reflection: Reflect on a recent moment of doubt in your faith journey. How can you use this doubt as an opportunity to seek deeper understanding and stronger belief?
Day 5: The Value of the Squeaky Wheel
Thomas' role as the one who asks the uncomfortable questions is vital in any community. His willingness to voice doubts and seek clarity helps prevent a herd mentality and encourages deeper exploration of faith. This teaches us the value of having individuals who are not afraid to question and seek truth within our faith communities. [54:52]
Thomas' willingness to ask the uncomfortable questions and seek clarity is vital in any community. His role as the "squeaky wheel" helps prevent a herd mentality and encourages deeper exploration of faith. By voicing his doubts and seeking answers, Thomas contributed to the spiritual growth and understanding of the entire group of disciples. This teaches us the value of having individuals who are not afraid to question and seek truth within our faith communities.
In our own faith communities, it is important to have individuals who are willing to ask the tough questions and seek deeper understanding. These individuals help prevent complacency and encourage others to explore their faith more deeply. Thomas' example reminds us that questioning and seeking truth are essential for spiritual growth and a healthy faith community.
Acts 17:11 (ESV): "Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so."
Reflection: Think of a recent discussion or study in your faith community. How can you contribute by asking thoughtful questions and seeking deeper understanding?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Holy Spirit brings us into unity as a body, but also sometimes unity in liturgy as well. That's what life is. It's a liturgy, isn't it? A liturgy orchestrated by whom? Not by Ben, not by me. By whom? By the Holy Spirit of God. And we walk to his beat and hopefully in step with him." [25:00] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If a man begins with certainties, if you begin with certainties, you will end in what? In doubts. But if a person will be content to begin with doubts, that person will end in certainties. The beginning of wisdom is what? Not doubt. What does the psalmist say? And Proverbs. The beginning of wisdom is what? The fear of the Lord." [27:56] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "There's a connection between faith and doubt. And if we never question our faith, I'm going to suggest to you, we don't grow in it. It doesn't mean that we have to be skeptics and dump everything in the garbage can every day and start over, but you know, have you ever had that moment when you said, is all of this really real?" [30:43] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I show you doubt to prove that faith exists. Khalil Gibran, a little bit later, an American Lebanese poet who is famous for having written The Prophet, which was very popular in the 20s and 30s, put it this way. Doubt is a pain so lonely that it doesn't know his twin brother is faith." [29:34] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Thomas was not the first to doubt. You see, that's why I think the label is a little unfair. All the disciples had doubted. They had little faith in the storm on the sea. Lord, don't you know we're about to drown? And he said, after he calms the sea, he said, Why do you have such little faith?" [59:21] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Thomas is not the only one who has doubts. The rest of them do as well. He is still reinforcing their little faith. They still doubt. They all do. He's not the only one. So the biblical text is in John the 11th chapter if you want to turn there. We're going to look at three texts tonight." [39:05] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Thomas had a very transparent character, I think. He was willing to be vulnerable and speak up even if it showed his ignorance. Have you ever been in a group and somebody's talking about something and nobody understands it? And you got that one person in the back of the class that raises a handset. I don't understand anything that you're talking about. And everybody goes, ha, ha, ha. But everybody that's laughing is really actually embarrassed because they don't understand." [53:18] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Thomas' confession went far beyond anyone else's that had gone before. You remember Nathaniel said, you are the king of Israel. You are the son of God. Peter had confessed, you're the son of God, the Christ. It went beyond all of those confessions. Thomas is the first to proclaim, as far as I understand it. He's the first to proclaim that Jesus himself is what? God. My Lord. My God." [01:03:44] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Loyalty to Christ means what he said. He to self, take up your cross and follow me. And Thomas was willing to do it. And the greatest proof of the resurrection is exactly what Thomas saw. We have many ways of God revealing himself, Christ revealing himself to us. But if you ever have any doubts, go to the Lord in prayer he will reveal himself to you as he did with Thomas." [01:11:28] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I think every one of us is like Thomas and the demoniac's father. We believe, but there's always a little bit of an element of doubt. I don't think what we do is we suppress that doubt like it doesn't exist. We voice it. That's what Thomas did. He was sincere and positive in seeking, and we should be too. You know, the quotes that I gave earlier, I think there's some truth to it. You know, doubt can be the twin, didymus, of growing faith." [01:07:48] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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