How can we apply Thomas's willingness to face danger for Jesus in our lives? \The Moment of Decision: John 11:16\ “Then Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with Him.’” (John 11:16) Thomas heard Jesus say He was returning to Judea, where hostile leaders had just tried to stone Him (John 10:31). Instead of urging caution, Thomas urged solidarity, even if it meant death. His words shine a spotlight on wholehearted devotion. \Key Truths We Learn from Thomas\ • Danger did not erase obedience. • Loyalty to Christ outweighed personal safety. • Commitment was expressed publicly—Thomas spoke to “his fellow disciples.” • His willingness flowed from relationship, not reckless impulse. \Courage Built on Unshakeable Convictions\ 1. Jesus is worth any cost. “Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me and for the gospel will save it.” (Mark 8:35) 2. Our times are in His hands. “In Your hands are all my days.” (Psalm 31:15) 3. Fear is displaced by the Spirit’s power. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) \Where Danger Looks Different Today\ • Speaking biblical truth in settings that ridicule it. • Protecting unborn life or biblical marriage when laws or culture oppose. • Serving in areas of persecution, poverty, or disease. • Refusing unethical business practices even when livelihood is at stake. • Standing with believers who suffer for their faith. \Practical Steps to Live Thomas-Style Courage\ • Settle Lordship daily: start each morning with, “Where You lead, I’ll follow.” • Know the Word; courage grows where conviction is clear. • Cultivate fellowship—Thomas rallied the group; we need believing friends who urge faith, not fear. • Train on small risks: share the gospel with one neighbor, refuse one shady compromise, so muscles of courage strengthen for larger tests. • Recall eternal perspective. “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) \Encouragement from Fellow Risk-Takers\ • Esther: “If I perish, I perish.” (Esther 4:16) • Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego: “Even if He does not save us, we will not serve your gods.” (Daniel 3:18) • Paul: “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 21:13) • Early church: “They rejoiced that they had been counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” (Acts 5:41) \Living It Out\ • Memorize John 11:16; let Thomas’s words echo when risk looms. • Before each big decision, ask, “Will this align me with Jesus, whatever the cost?” • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness after courageous obedience; they spark boldness in others. • Hold loosely to earthly security, tightly to eternal promises. “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.” (Revelation 12:11) Thomas shows us that facing danger for Jesus is not extraordinary heroism reserved for a few; it is normal discipleship fueled by love, confidence in God’s sovereignty, and the comfort of eternal life. |
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