What can we learn from Thomas's courage in John 11:16 for our faith? Setting the Scene John 11 opens with news that Lazarus is gravely ill in Bethany, just two miles from Jerusalem. The last time Jesus was in Judea, the leaders tried to stone Him (John 10:31). Going back looks like a death sentence. Yet Jesus decides to return, and Thomas steps forward: “Then Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, ‘Let us also go, so that we may die with Him.’ ” (John 11:16) Thomas’s Bold Declaration • Thomas speaks when others are silent. • He counts the cost and still chooses loyalty. • His words reveal both realism—“that we may die”—and resolve—“let us also go.” What Courage Looks Like in Real Time 1. Facing real danger, not theoretical risk. Judea’s hostility was fresh in everyone’s mind (John 10:39). 2. Choosing obedience over self-preservation. Jesus leads; Thomas follows, echoing Matthew 16:24. 3. Standing together. Thomas addresses the group: “let us also go.” Courage rallies community. Lessons for Our Faith Journey • Commitment beyond comfort – Following Christ can involve tangible loss (Philippians 1:29). – Thomas reminds us discipleship may demand everything, even life. • Courage is action in the presence of fear – God does not call us to denial of danger but to walk through it (Joshua 1:9). – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Love fuels bravery – “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) – Thomas’s willingness to die springs from affection for Jesus. • Honest faith still pleases God – Later, Thomas wrestles with doubt (John 20:24-29), yet Jesus meets him graciously. – Our moments of uncertainty do not cancel earlier steps of courage. • Influence through example – One believer’s resolve can lift an entire group. – Like iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17), courageous words spur others forward. Putting Thomas’s Example into Practice • Identify areas where obedience feels risky—relationships, career, reputation. Step toward faithfulness anyway. • Speak courage into your circle. A simple, conviction-filled sentence can galvanize hesitant hearts. • Anchor bravery in love for Christ. The deeper the love, the steadier the courage. • Remember: bold steps today prepare you for tomorrow’s tests, just as Thomas’s stand preceded the resurrection encounters. Thomas’s courage in John 11:16 shows us a disciple who hears the worst-case scenario, counts the cost, and still says yes. May that same resolute, love-fueled faith mark our walk with Jesus. |
    |