The Risen Christ and Doubting Thomas
Text: “…Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” John 20:25
Scripture: John 20:24-31
Introduction- John is known throughout his ministry with Jesus and in his written as the apostle of love. But he couldn’t help himself to take a stand vis-à-vis the doubting Thomas regarding the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ from the dead. The appearance of the risen Lord to the disciples a week following the resurrection is to him the most convincing proof that Jesus is the Christ “Messiah,” the Son of God. John revealed that the resurrection, not merely the death, is the ground for salvation. “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name”(John 20:31). The resurrection of Christ is the pillar on which the Gospel stood. No skeptic regarding the bodily resurrection of Christ can be saved or be a true disciple. Resurrection of our Lord and Savior is also the solid foundation upon which our faith is built.
A. The effects of the death of Christ on the disciples
The expectation of every apostle following Jesus was very high. The promises of a King that will deliver Israel from oppression and establish his kingdom were the main reasons for leaving everything to embark in that ‘adventure’. Everyone was juggling for the highest position in that government. The news of the death of Christ wasn’t well accepted by the disciples. In one of their conversations, speaking about his death and resurrection, Christ was telling them that he will have to leave for a little while. “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.” John 16:16. As for Peter, the mention of death and resurrection by the Lord wasn’t supposed to be part of their conversation. The disciples would have done everything in their power to prevent the death of their future King.
* His death plunged the disciples in a state of low spirits caused by loss of hope and discouragement.
* His death was for them a humiliating public disgrace, for their King died as a condemned criminal in the cruelest manner.
* His death plunged their political hopes into complete eclipse, for they had dreamed of glory and fame in the new kingdom.
* Thomas was especially disappointed, because he was a very devoted follower of the King.
B. The effect of the first appearance of the risen Savior to the disciples (John 20:19-20)
The disciples were not only disappointed, but fear of the Jewish leaders drove everyone into hiding. The death of Jesus was for them like a failed coup d’état with dire consequences. They have spent three years in company of the Messiah. They were all well known in every place that Jesus ministered. But on the evening of the first day of the week, during a very low point of their lives, the risen Savior appeared to them in their secret place. That appearance brought to them peace, joy, empowerment and boldness. “The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.” John 20:20b. The risen Savior also provided them motivation for Christian service. The fearful disciples came out of their hiding place to herald the good and powerful news of the risen Savior.
C. Effect of the second appearance of the risen Savior on Thomas, the doubter (John 20:28)
As God, Christ was aware of Thomas’s demand and skepticism. “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25). Jesus never rejects sincere inquiry. He may have no time for fools, but those who are sincerely inquired about the resurrection and salvation can find real evidence. The Bible presents many eyewitness accounts that Jesus was seen alive. In the first letter of Paul to the Corinthians, we find a list of friendly eyewitnesses and even former enemy eyewitness. “… He appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of who are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, and to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also.” (I Co.15: 5-8). Saul was one of most staunch enemies of Christ. He was totally committed to wiping out Christianity. But he met the risen Savior in his way to Damascus. The enemy was transformed into an evangelist to the cause of the living Savior. Christ wasn’t upset with Thomas for requesting proof of his resurrection because, he wanted him to experience from the risen Savior:
* Unchanging love of his Master. He wasn’t mad at him for doubting. (John 20:27b)
* The penetrating knowledge of the living Lord. He is omniscient. (John 20:27a)
* Real evidence that Christ had really conquered death and the grave (John 20:28)
Conclusion- Just like Thomas, many people have difficulties accepting that Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected the third day. For Thomas, the evidence was so clear after placing his fingers in the side and seeing the nail pierced hands of Christ. He exclaimed: “My Lord and my God!”(John 20:28). Any genuine enquirer can experience the proof of the living Lord and Savior. With Thomas, make the risen Savior Lord and God of your life and receive power over death.