Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Doubting, in a biblical context, refers to a state of uncertainty or lack of faith in God's promises, character, or actions. It is often portrayed as a spiritual struggle where an individual wavers between belief and unbelief. Doubting can manifest as questioning God's will, His goodness, or His ability to fulfill His promises. Biblical Instances and Teachings: 1. Thomas the Apostle: One of the most well-known instances of doubting in the Bible is the account of Thomas, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas expressed skepticism about the reports of Jesus being alive, stating, "Unless I see in His hands the mark of the nails, and put my finger into the mark of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will never believe" (John 20:25). Jesus later appeared to Thomas, inviting him to touch His wounds, leading Thomas to proclaim, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). This account highlights the tension between doubt and faith and Jesus' willingness to meet individuals in their doubts. 2. Peter Walking on Water: Another significant example is Peter's experience of walking on water. When Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee, Peter asked to come to Him on the water. Initially, Peter walked toward Jesus, but when he saw the wind, he became afraid and began to sink. Jesus immediately reached out to save him, saying, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:31). This incident illustrates how doubt can arise from focusing on circumstances rather than on Christ. 3. James on Doubt and Prayer: The Epistle of James addresses the issue of doubt in the context of prayer. James writes, "But let him ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind" (James 1:6). This passage emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith when seeking wisdom from God, suggesting that doubt can hinder one's ability to receive from the Lord. 4. Abraham's Faith: In contrast to doubt, Abraham is often cited as a model of faith. Despite the improbability of God's promise that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham "did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God" (Romans 4:20). Abraham's steadfast belief is presented as an example for believers to trust in God's promises despite apparent impossibilities. Theological Implications: Doubting is often seen as a natural human response to uncertainty and challenges. However, the Bible encourages believers to overcome doubt through faith and trust in God. Doubt is not condemned outright but is portrayed as a condition that can be addressed through a deeper relationship with God and reliance on His Word. The presence of doubt can lead to spiritual growth when individuals seek answers and reassurance from God. Practical Considerations: Believers are encouraged to bring their doubts to God in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength. Engaging with Scripture, participating in a faith community, and remembering past instances of God's faithfulness can help mitigate doubt. The Bible presents doubt as an opportunity for believers to deepen their faith and reliance on God, transforming uncertainty into a stronger conviction of His truth and promises. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Doubt.2. (a.) That is uncertain; that distrusts or hesitates; having doubts. Greek 1252. diakrino -- to distinguish, to judge ... Word Origin from dia and krino Definition to distinguish, to judge NASB Word Usage decide (1), discern (1), disputed (1), doubt (2), doubting (2), doubts (2 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1252.htm - 9k 574. haplos -- simply, sincerely 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness Library The Time of Doubting and of Spiritual Darkness Constitutes Not with Doubting, but with Assured Consciousness, do I Love Thee. ... Meditations against Despair, or Doubting of God's Mercy. The Doubting Soul More Particularly Assisted in Its Inquiries as ... Praying Without Doubting Jacob and Doubting Souls --A Parallel 1 Timothy ii. 10-Aug Commandment Ninth. Prayer must be Made to God Without Ceasing, and ... John Chapter viii. 19, 20 Troubles of Lingering at the Crossing Thesaurus Doubting (13 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Doubting (13 Occurrences). ... (BBE). John 13:22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake. (KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT) ... /d/doubting.htm - 10k Hesitation (2 Occurrences) Doubtless (10 Occurrences) Doubtful (4 Occurrences) Doubt (49 Occurrences) Quarreling (17 Occurrences) Nothing (769 Occurrences) Unbelieving (22 Occurrences) Wave (65 Occurrences) Waves (43 Occurrences) Resources How can I stop doubting Jesus? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I avoid being a doubting Thomas? | GotQuestions.org Doubting God - how can I overcome doubt in my relationship with God? | GotQuestions.org Doubting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Doubting (13 Occurrences)Matthew 21:21 John 13:22 John 20:27 Acts 5:24 Acts 10:20 Acts 11:12 Acts 25:20 Romans 14:13 1 Timothy 2:8 James 1:6 James 3:17 Jude 1:22 Psalms 119:113 Subtopics Doubting: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
    |