Scripture References: John 20:24-31; Hebrews 12:5-6 (implied)
Intro: We're exploring encounters with the resurrected Jesus – proof He is alive! Central to following Him is faith, or perhaps better put, trust. In a world marked by broken trust, truly trusting God can be hard, yet it's essential. How do we grow in trust? Thomas's famous encounter in John 20 offers profound keys.
Key Points:
- Trust is Vital, Yet Difficult: Following Jesus requires fundamental trust. Life's hurts and disappointments can create deep-seated distrust, hindering our relationship with God even after becoming Christians. Growing in trust is non-negotiable for spiritual growth.
- Thomas's Demand: Thomas missed Jesus's first appearance and declared, "Unless I see... and put my finger... I will not believe." This went beyond understandable doubt into a demanding posture, requiring physical proof rather than trusting the testimony of his friends and Jesus's past miracles (like raising Lazarus).
- Receiving God's Loving Rebuke: Jesus meets Thomas but firmly says, "Stop doubting and believe." This isn't harshness; it's a loving challenge against entrenched unbelief that relies on physical sight. Like a loving Father (Heb 12), God sometimes rebukes us to protect us from harmful patterns (like cynicism, self-focus) and call us toward the adventures He has planned (Thomas's potential mission to India).
- Being Convinced of God's Kindness: The rebuke lands because it's wrapped in overwhelming kindness. Jesus reappears, offers the very proof Thomas demanded (even while calling him to a faith beyond sight), and speaks peace before Thomas confesses. God consistently runs to our aid with resurrection power, even when we are faithless or demanding.
- From Shame to Adventure: God’s interaction removes shame. He offers peace and righteousness freely (like the white dress illustration). Letting go of shame connected to past failures or unbelief frees us to trust Him for the "great adventures" He has for us.
Conclusion: Growing in trust involves both receiving God's loving correction when we shift into demanding unbelief, and being deeply convinced of His relentless kindness. He meets us in our doubt, not to condemn, but to call us higher – out of rationalism, cynicism, and shame, into a life of faith empowered by His resurrection life, ready for the unique "India" He has for each of us.
Call to Action:
- Examine your heart: Are you subtly demanding proof or harbouring unbelief?
- Be willing: Receive God's loving course correction if needed. Ask Him to help you shift from willful to willing.
- Embrace His kindness: Let go of any shame. Receive His forgiveness and peace anew.
- Ask for fresh faith: Pray for purity of heart and eyes of faith to trust Him beyond what you see.
- Agree with Heaven: Reject cynicism. Declare your trust in God's goodness and His plans for your life.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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