In what ways can we support others struggling with disbelief in Jesus' resurrection? Setting the Scene: Disbelief among the Disciples Mark 16:11 records, “And when they heard that Jesus was alive and she had seen Him, they did not believe it.” Even the first hearers of the resurrection report struggled. Their hesitation proves that doubt is not a modern anomaly—and Scripture shows how that doubt was overcome. Recognize the Reality of Doubt Without Condemnation • Jude 22: “And have mercy on those who doubt.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:14: “Encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” • Doubt is addressed with mercy, patience, and gentle help, not scolding. • Acknowledge that honest questions can coexist with sincere seeking. Share Credible Eyewitness Testimony • Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9–11), the Emmaus travelers (Luke 24:33–35), the Eleven (Luke 24:36–43), and more than five hundred witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:3–8) provide historically grounded evidence. • Present these accounts as literal history, underscoring God’s care in supplying multiple witnesses. • Emphasize that first-century skeptics were convinced by meeting the risen Lord. Open Scripture and Reason from It • Romans 10:17: “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Acts 17:2–3: Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead.” • Walk through prophetic passages (Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 53:10–12) and their fulfillment in the Gospels. • Encourage reading whole narratives—Mark 15–16, Luke 24, John 20–21—so doubts are confronted by the full story, not isolated verses. Invite Personal Encounter With the Risen Christ • John 20:27–29: Jesus invited Thomas to touch His wounds, moving him from doubt to worship. • Encourage seekers to “taste and see that the LORD is good” (Psalm 34:8) through repentance and trust. • Explain the Spirit’s role: Romans 8:11 affirms the Spirit who raised Jesus dwells in believers, making the resurrection experientially real. Model Resurrection Power Through Transformed Living • Colossians 3:1: “Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above.” • A life marked by forgiveness, joy, and holiness gives visible evidence that Jesus is alive. • Acts 4:13 shows observers recognizing the disciples “had been with Jesus”; modern disciples can display the same unmistakable difference. Provide a Supportive Community • Hebrews 10:24–25 urges believers to meet together and spur one another on. • Offer safe spaces—small groups, meals, informal conversations—where questions are welcomed and Scripture is opened. • Connect doubters with mature believers who patiently share personal testimonies and biblical answers. Pray Persistently for the Spirit’s Illumination • Ephesians 1:18 asks that “the eyes of your hearts may be enlightened.” • Commit to regular intercession that God would grant revelation of the risen Christ, while trusting that salvation ultimately rests on His grace. Summing Up: Practical Steps to Support a Doubter 1. Listen respectfully to their struggles. 2. Share eyewitness Scripture passages. 3. Walk through prophetic foundations. 4. Invite them to encounter Christ personally. 5. Live a resurrected life before them. 6. Keep them close to a caring, truth-filled community. 7. Cover the journey with unwavering prayer and patience. |
    |