THOMAS: THE SKEPTIC

Meredith Lee Harris
May 19, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Feb 17

Thomas is often remembered by a single defining moment—the moment he doubted. History has branded him "Doubting Thomas," as if his entire legacy is summed up in that brief instance of uncertainty. But his story is far more than a moment of hesitation. Thomas was not condemned for questioning; rather, he was given the proof he sought. And when he saw the truth, he believed. His journey reveals a powerful message: God is not angry at skeptics. Instead, He reveals Himself to those who genuinely desire to know Him. But the moment of revelation demands a response—belief.

Seeking Proof, Finding Truth

After Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples were devastated. Their leader, their Messiah, had been executed. But then, rumors spread—Jesus was alive! He had risen from the dead. One by one, the disciples encountered the resurrected Christ, their sorrow turning to joy. But Thomas had not been there when Jesus first appeared to them. And when they told him the news, he refused to believe it without proof.

He famously declared, “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). This wasn’t casual skepticism. It was a deep struggle between despair and hope. He had seen Jesus die. How could He be alive? Thomas needed something tangible—something undeniable.

Jesus Meets the Seeker

Eight days later, Jesus appeared again, this time with Thomas present. There were no rebukes, no accusations, just an invitation: “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27).

Jesus did not shame Thomas for his doubt. He did not dismiss him for needing proof. Instead, He gave Thomas exactly what he asked for—undeniable evidence. But Jesus also issued a call to action: Stop doubting and believe. The proof was there, but it was up to Thomas to respond.

Thomas did not hesitate. Overcome with conviction, he declared, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). In that moment, he was no longer the skeptic—he was the believer. His doubt had not disqualified him. His questions had not angered Jesus. Instead, they led him to the truth. But once the truth was revealed, faith was no longer optional.

The Call to Believe

Jesus then spoke a profound truth:

“Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29

This statement was not just for Thomas—it was for all who would come after him. Not everyone would receive the privilege of touching Christ’s wounds, but faith is not dependent on sight. The real challenge is believing even when you have not seen.

God is not angry at those who seek Him. He does not reject those who ask questions. But there is a difference between seeking truth and refusing to believe. Thomas wanted to know if Jesus was truly alive, and Jesus answered him. But when the truth was revealed, Thomas had to make a choice—to continue in doubt or to believe. The same choice is given to each of us.

Faith Beyond Sight

Many today struggle with faith because they cannot physically see God. They want proof, tangible evidence, something undeniable. But faith is not about having all the answers before believing—it is about trusting the One who has already revealed Himself. The world is filled with evidence of God’s existence: the intricacy of creation, the historical reliability of Scripture, the transformative power of the gospel. But ultimately, faith requires trust.

Thomas was given proof because he was part of the foundation of the church, one of the apostles who would testify to Christ’s resurrection. But Jesus made it clear that those who believe without seeing are blessed. Faith is not blind; it is based on trust in the character of God, His Word, and His work in our lives.

Thomas’ Legacy: From Skeptic to Missionary

Thomas’ story did not end in that upper room. After his declaration of faith, he went on to spread the gospel far beyond Jerusalem. According to historical accounts, Thomas traveled to India, preaching the good news of Christ and establishing churches. The one who doubted became one of the most zealous missionaries of his time, ultimately giving his life for the gospel he once struggled to believe. This is the power of faith. Thomas’ initial hesitation did not define him—his belief did. His life testifies that honest seekers will find God, but once they do, they must respond in faith.

How Does This Speak to You?

Maybe you have questions about God. Maybe you struggle with doubt. Know this: God is not mad at you for asking. He welcomes those who genuinely seek Him. But like Thomas, when the truth is revealed, you must believe. The evidence of God’s existence, His love, and His power is all around you. If you seek Him, you will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13). But faith is not about having every answer before you trust—it is about believing in the One who is faithful and true.

Jesus is not afraid of your questions. But He does call you to move beyond them. Like Thomas, you must go from doubting to declaring. The choice is yours.

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