Thomas, the Skeptic

Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:26-29 ESV). While we have come to know Thomas as the “doubter,” I have always thought of him more as a skeptic. After all, Thomas did not ask for a special revelation from Jesus. He simply asked for the same proof the other disciples had been given. Thomas had not been with the others when Jesus appeared to them (cf. John 20:24-25). Being an analytically inclined man who wanted to know for himself; he wanted to see for himself the resurrected Christ. Like so many others through the ages, he would not let others do his thinking for him. I am thankful that he was included in the story. It gives so many people the encouragement and hope that Jesus will still come to the skeptical. Jesus made a special resurrection appearance for Thomas. He condescended to Thomas and his desire to know for himself. What amazes me about this is that Jesus came to Thomas on his level. He didn't rebuke him. He didn't humiliate him. He could see that deep down in Thomas's heart, he really wanted to know God. Jesus came to him and said, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” It must have been an incredible moment in his life. You might be someone who is a bit skeptical, a bit unsure of your faith. You may have a lot of questions. Deep down inside, you want to know God. You want to know for yourself. The risen Lord has something for you. He can turn your skepticism into belief. While Jesus may not come in physical form to you, He will bring the truth to you as you search in earnest. For me that was accomplished through the patient teaching and guidance of my father-in-law, Bruce Perry. There were many Sunday afternoons that we sat in the living room as he opened their family Bible to various passages showing me the answers to all my questions. It took months of patient leading and prayer from many others, but finally every question was answered so that I could merely come to Him with my doubts and have them satisfied. Like Thomas I was able to say, "My Lord and my God!" So can you!