TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” John 20:26-28
Read: John 20:19-29
Listen: John 20
TODAY’S MESSAGE
One of the disciples, Thomas, isn’t with the rest when Jesus first appears to them and doubts their story. While all together a week later, Jesus appears to them again and singles out Thomas. Instead of scolding him for his doubt, Jesus invites Thomas to see and believe. Jesus tells Thomas to look at and touch the wounds of the execution. Jesus wants Thomas on his team and to stop doubting. Thomas immediately believes, crying out, “My Lord and my God!”
Thomas isn’t the only person in the Bible with doubts. It’s ok to doubt at times. Many of us find ourselves with questions today. Whether we are Jesus-believers with doubts, skeptical or seeking—we can learn from Jesus and Thomas. Jesus doesn’t appear angry but instead invites Thomas to see and then believe. Thomas, once he sees Jesus, moves from doubt to belief.
Maybe we’re struggling with doubt and need to hear God’s tender voice inviting us to see. Perhaps we’re a believer who can learn from Jesus to grow in graciousness toward those who have doubts. Or we might have some questions and are holding back until all the answers are clear. Sometimes, we might need to move from doubt to belief before having all the answers. Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion talks about the God who knows our name and is inviting us to come and see.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Consider whether you are struggling with doubt and how you can move to belief in Jesus. We would love to start a conversation with you. Email us at btw@adabible.org. If you are seeking, join us these next three weeks to hear from guest pastor John Dickson. John is a scholar, speaker, and author who may help address some of your questions.
2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.
April is CONFESSION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
