Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 20:24-29, where, after the resurrection, Jesus appears to the disciples again - this time with Thomas, who did not believe that Jesus had rose from the dead. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: God does not mind that we doubt - see also Jude 22-23 where we are encouraged to have mercy on those who doubt. In this case, Jesus overcomes locked doors (not a difficult feat for God) to bring Thomas to faith. Jesus uses this as a teaching moment to encourage belief in Jesus without full evidence - this is faith.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: All of us, like Thomas, have sufficient evidence to know that God exists - without excuse (general revelation) - see Romans 1:20. Yet many continue to doubt - if this is you, I would encourage you to lean into God because if You seek Him with all of your heart, you will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13) (special revelation).
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid testing God - see the latter remarks of this post. Claim the promise that Jesus is who He says He is - King of Kings, the Good Shepherd, and your personal Lord and Savior who has already defeated sin and death and rose again giving believers life now to the full and for eternity. Follow the example of those who have not seen everything but believe - have faith. Trust God's promises (2 Corinthians 1:20).
My Prayer: Father God, You are my personal Lord and Savior and I know I can never be separated from Your love. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
