Thomas has missed out on the seeing Jesus after Easter, and ever since has been known for his doubt. But he is still a person of faith, and like him we can bring our questions without fear, knowing that Jesus will still love us.
Worship this week – Saturday at 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday at 8:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship
10:30 a.m. – Contemporary Worship
Sunday School & Fellowship hour at 9:30 a.m.
April 27, 2014
John 20:19-31
Key Verses: “Then [Jesus] said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” John 20:27-28
Time: 30 CE
Background: The disciples were afraid. Jesus had been gone only 3 days. They were without their master, and the Jews were clearly ready to do away with Jesus and his followers. They didn’t know where to go or what to do. Fear and uncertainty would have been understandable under the circumstances.
Jesus’ appearance behind locked doors would have come as a shock. It’s not surprising that Thomas would be slow to believe the disciples’ account, given the high, intense emotions from the events of the weekend all the disciples had endured.
Despite Thomas’ doubt, it should be noted that Thomas did not need to touch Jesus, as he indicated he would. Seeing Jesus was all he needed to know his Lord had returned. His eyewitness account, along with the other disciples’ accounts, were that start of the spread of the good news that Jesus was alive!
Community: Are there people in your community who may feel as though they’ve been left out of something good? How might you invite them in?
At Home: What areas of faith cause you to doubt? Let yourself sit with that doubt for a while. Ask the hard questions. Consider the scary alternatives. Talk to God. See what happens when you open yourself to your doubts, fears, options, and opportunities.
Read This Week:
Monday, Apr 28, Seven Chosen to Serve, Acts 6:1-7
Tuesday, Apr 29, The Arrest of Stephen, Acts 6:8-15
Wednesday, Apr 30, Stephen’s Speech to the Council, Acts 7:1-22
Thursday, May 1, Stephen’s Speech to the Council, Acts 7:23-43
Friday, May 2, Stephen’s Speech to the Council, Acts 7:44-53
Saturday, May 3, The Stoning of Stephen, Acts 7:54-8:1
