There Is A RedeemerShembull

The Death of Doubt

Jesus’s disciple Thomas is often referred to as “Doubting Thomas” (See John 20:24–29), but the label isn’t entirely fair. After all, how many of us would have believed that our executed leader had been resurrected? We might just as well call him “Courageous Thomas.” After all, Thomas displayed impressive courage as Jesus moved purposefully into the events leading to His death.

At the death of Lazarus, Jesus had said, “Let’s go back to Judea” (John 11:7), prompting a protest from the disciples. “Rabbi, . . . only a few days ago the people in Judea were trying to stone you. Are you going there again?” (V. 8). It was Thomas who said, “Let’s go, too—and die with Jesus” (v. 16).

Thomas’s intentions proved nobler than his actions. Upon Jesus’s arrest, Thomas fled with the rest (Matthew 26:56), leaving Peter and John to accompany Christ to the courtyard of the high priest. Only John followed Jesus all the way to the cross.

Despite having witnessed the resurrection of Lazarus (John 11:38–44), Thomas still couldn’t believe Christ had conquered death. Not until Thomas the doubter—the human—saw the risen Lord, could he exclaim, “My Lord and my God!” (20:28).

Jesus’s response gave assurance to the doubter and immeasurable comfort to us: “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me” (v. 29). TIM GUSTAFSON

Real doubt searches for the light; unbelief is content with the darkness.