How does John 20:27 encourage us to strengthen our faith in Jesus? Setting the Scene John 20:27: “Then He said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see My hands. Reach out your hand and put it into My side. Stop doubting and believe.’” Why Thomas Matters to Us • Thomas voiced the skepticism many people feel but seldom say aloud. • Jesus did not rebuke him harshly; He invited Thomas closer. • This invitation emphasizes that honest doubt, when brought to Christ, can become a doorway to stronger faith. Jesus’ Response—A Model for Strengthening Faith • Personal invitation: “Put your finger here.” Faith is not blind; Jesus supplies evidence. • Physical proof: His resurrected body carried the marks—history and miracle meet. • Direct command: “Stop doubting and believe.” Jesus links obedience and trust. Core Encouragements Drawn from the Verse 1. Faith welcomes honest questions. 2. Jesus provides sufficient evidence for belief. 3. Doubt should be temporary; belief is the goal. 4. Encountering the risen Christ transforms skepticism into confession (John 20:28). Practical Ways to Apply This Encouragement • Examine the Scriptural record—treat it as historically reliable (Luke 1:1-4; 2 Peter 1:16). • Bring doubts into the light of prayerful study rather than hiding them (Psalm 119:105). • Recall past personal “markers” of God’s faithfulness—your own version of the nail-pierced hands. • Join with believers who testify to Christ’s work in their lives (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Obey first steps you already understand; faith grows through practiced truth (John 7:17). Other Passages That Echo the Same Assurance • John 14:11—“Believe Me that I am in the Father…” Evidence and invitation pair again. • 1 John 1:1—Eyewitness testimony grounds faith. • Romans 10:17—“Faith comes by hearing…” The Word continues what Christ began with Thomas. • Jude 22—“Be merciful to those who doubt,” mirroring Jesus’ patience. Summary Take-Aways • Jesus meets honest doubt with gracious proof. • The resurrection marks offer historical solidity and personal invitation. • Acting on available evidence moves us from uncertainty to robust, life-shaping belief. |
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