How can we support others struggling with disbelief, as seen in Luke 24:11? Recognize Doubt as Real, Not Rebellion • Luke 24:11 records, “But their words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women.” • Honest perplexity can coexist with sincere desire for truth (cf. Mark 9:24). • Begin by acknowledging the struggle instead of shaming it—“have mercy on those who doubt” (Jude 1:22). Share the Eyewitness Testimony of the Resurrection • The women told what they had seen; we do the same. • Use clear, repeated statements of the gospel: Jesus died, was buried, and rose bodily (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Keep returning to the factual foundation—“many convincing proofs” (Acts 1:3). Walk Patiently and Lovingly with the Doubter • The risen Christ accompanied the Emmaus travelers for miles before their eyes were opened (Luke 24:13-35). • Stay near; listen more than lecture. • Maintain a gentle tone (1 Peter 3:15). Open the Scriptures Together • Jesus “explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself” (Luke 24:27). • Read passages that anchor faith: Psalm 22; Isaiah 53; Luke 24; 1 Corinthians 15. • Ask the doubter to note fulfilled prophecies—faith grows when evidence is seen in the text. Invite Them to Examine the Evidence Firsthand • Jesus offered tangible proof: “Put your finger here” (John 20:27-29). • Encourage reading a Gospel start-to-finish, attending worship, meeting believers whose lives testify to Christ’s power. • Share trustworthy historical resources that confirm Scripture’s reliability. Pray and Expect the Spirit to Illuminate • After the disciples heard Scripture, “He opened their minds to understand” (Luke 24:45). • Pray consistently that the Spirit grants the same clarity (Ephesians 1:17-18). • Confidence rests in God’s ability, not our persuasion. Model a Joy-Filled, Consistent Witness • The apostles moved from skepticism to bold proclamation because they truly met the risen Lord (Acts 4:20). • Live transparently—integrity reinforces your words. • Let gratitude and joy be visible; authentic Christianity is compelling evidence in itself. Persevere in Hope • Doubt on Sunday became conviction by Sunday night (Luke 24:33-34). • Keep sowing truth, loving patiently, and praying expectantly. • Remember: the same Jesus who overcame the disciples’ disbelief still opens hearts today. |
    |