But Some doubted
An exploration of doubt in the context of divine revelation, the identity of Jesus, and the call to faith and obedience.
1. The Reality of Doubt and the Path to Assurance
1.1 The Human Tendency to Question
Verses: Matthew 28:17; John 20:24-25; Mark 16:11
- Even those who witnessed Jesus' resurrection had moments of uncertainty.
- Doubt is a natural human response to the extraordinary.
- God often uses our questions to lead us to deeper understanding.
1.2 Encountering the Risen Lord
Verses: John 20:26-29; Luke 24:36-43; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8
- Personal experience with Jesus transforms doubt into conviction.
- The physical evidence of the resurrection was crucial for the disciples.
- Our faith is built on the historical reality of Jesus' triumph over death.
1.3 The Role of Scripture in Building Faith
Verses: Luke 24:27; Acts 17:11; Romans 10:17
- Understanding the prophecies concerning Jesus strengthens belief.
- Diligent study of God's Word confirms His truth.
- Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
2. The Unveiling of God in Jesus Christ
2.1 Jesus: The Fullness of the Godhead Bodily
Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 1:1; John 14:9
- In Jesus, the complete essence of God dwells in human form.
- Jesus is not merely a prophet or a man, but God manifest in the flesh.
- To see Jesus is to see the Father, for He is the visible expression of the invisible God.
2.2 The One Name for Salvation
Verses: Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11; John 10:30
- There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
- God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him a name that is above every name.
- Jesus declared His oneness with the Father, signifying His divine identity.
2.3 Jesus as Lord of All
Verses: Acts 2:36; Romans 10:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
- God has made Jesus both Lord and Christ.
- Confessing Jesus as Lord is essential for salvation.
- The mystery of godliness reveals God Himself manifest in human form.
3. The Commission to Proclaim the Truth
3.1 The Authority of the Risen Christ
Verses: Matthew 28:18; John 17:2; Ephesians 1:20-22
- All power and authority in heaven and on earth have been given to Jesus.
- His authority empowers His followers to carry out His mission.
- God raised Jesus from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority.
3.2 The Mandate to Make Disciples
Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:47-48
- We are commanded to go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of Jesus.
- The message of repentance and remission of sins is to be preached in His name.
- Discipleship involves teaching obedience to all that Jesus commanded.
3.3 Empowered by His Spirit
Verses: Acts 1:8; John 14:16-17; Acts 2:4
- Believers receive power when the Holy Spirit, which is the Spirit of Jesus, comes upon them.
- The Spirit of truth dwells within us, guiding and empowering.
- The outpouring of the Spirit enables bold witness and supernatural manifestations.
4. Living in Response to the Undoubted Truth
4.1 Repentance and Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
- The initial response to the gospel is repentance and water baptism.
- Baptism is to be administered in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
- This act identifies us with His death, burial, and resurrection.
4.2 Receiving the Gift of His Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 10:44-46; Galatians 3:27
- Following baptism, believers are promised the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- The Spirit of God indwells believers, empowering them for a new life.
- Being clothed with Christ through the Spirit transforms us.
4.3 Walking in Obedience and Faith
Verses: James 1:22; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 1:5
- True faith is demonstrated through obedience to God's Word.
- Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
- The gospel calls for the obedience that comes from faith.