Apostle Thomas: From Doubt to Devotion
A study of the Apostle Thomas, focusing on his faith journey.
1. Thomas: A Disciple's Commitment
1.1 Thomas's Calling and Initial Faith
Verses: Matthew 10:3; John 11:16
- Thomas was one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus.
- He was present during Jesus' ministry, witnessing miracles and teachings.
1.2 A Willingness to Follow
Verses: John 11:16
- When Jesus announced His intention to return to Judea, Thomas expressed a willingness to die with Him.
- This reveals a deep commitment, even if tinged with a sense of foreboding.
2. Thomas's Inquiry and Jesus's Revelation
2.1 Thomas's Question: 'We Know Not Where Thou Goest'
Verses: John 14:5
- During the Last Supper, Jesus spoke of going to prepare a place for His disciples and that they knew the way.
- Thomas confessed his lack of understanding, asking how they could know the way if they didn't know where He was going.
2.2 Jesus's Answer: 'I Am the Way'
Verses: John 14:6
- Jesus responded, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.'
- This profound statement clarifies that Jesus Himself is the path to the Father, the embodiment of truth, and the source of eternal life.
3. Thomas's Doubt and Ultimate Belief
3.1 Thomas's Doubt: 'Except I Shall See'
Verses: John 20:24-25
- After Jesus's crucifixion, the disciples were gathered together, but Thomas was absent when Jesus appeared to them.
- The other disciples told Thomas that they had seen the Lord, but he refused to believe unless he could physically touch the nail prints in Jesus's hands and thrust his hand into His side.
3.2 Jesus's Appearance and Invitation
Verses: John 20:26-27
- A week later, the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. Jesus appeared, even though the doors were shut.
- Jesus directly addressed Thomas, inviting him to touch His hands and side, and urging him not to be faithless, but believing.
3.3 Thomas's Confession: 'My Lord and My God'
Verses: John 20:28-29
- Thomas responded to Jesus with the declaration, 'My Lord and my God.'
- Jesus affirmed Thomas's belief, but also stated, 'blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.'
4. Theological Implications
4.1 Lessons from Thomas's Experience
Verses: John 20:29
- Thomas's initial doubt highlights the importance of personal encounter with the risen Christ.
- His story encourages those who struggle with belief to seek a deeper understanding and relationship with Jesus.
4.2 The Significance of Thomas's Confession
Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 20:28
- Thomas's declaration, 'My Lord and my God,' is a powerful affirmation of Jesus's deity.
- This confession aligns with the understanding that Jesus is the fullness of the Godhead bodily.