Thomas the Skeptic
I am pretty intrigued by Thomas also called Didymus which means “the twin.” His sibling is not mentioned in the scriptures. What is pointed out is this man was a skeptic. He did not just believe what he heard. He required proof. Today, he would be known as a Missourian: from the “show me state.” Despite witnessing Jesus raise his friend, Lazarus, from the grave, he would not believe Jesus was resurrected unless he was able to see Jesus, hear Jesus, and put his own finger into the wounds in Jesus’ hands, feet, and side. He had to wait a full eight days to get the proof he required. Eight days of being on the sidelines of experiences with the risen Savior because he needed proof positive. (John 20:26) His “Incredulity” cost him.
The Incredulity of Thomas by Caravaggio
Skeptics are exhausting
I have friends and family members who are skeptics. They cannot believe unless they have proof. Yet, Jesus said, we are more blessed when we believe and have not seen. (John 20:29) Skeptics can be exhausting.
Like the other disciples, Thomas is uneducated, a blue collar worker (fisherman, farmer, or craftsmen), Jewish, and a man of faith. He is loyal and courageous. (John 11:16) This man followed the Lord by leaving everything and would ultimately give his life in the service of his King. He may have been nicknamed “Doubting Thomas,” but once his questions were answered he never wavered in following the Great Commission for he was confident in his call. (John 14:5-7)
Confidence by Sanctus Real
What about the Master do you doubt? What is sidelining you and your mission? Take your questions to the Lord. He will answer. However, ask then go on and move in the direction He is leading. Do not wait for His answer to be obedient. Think of the blessings you might miss because you are a Missourian. Have confidence in the Savior; He has proven Himself repeatedly. James puts it this way: “If any lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, NOTHING WAVERING. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. (James 1:5-7)
A friend of Jesus is bold enough to ask the questions and courageous enough to die for the answers given.
Additional Reading:
Thank God for Jesus’ grace in that He pursues and forgives those who doubt and finally turn to Him. God we ask You to show us the unbelievers and allow Your light to shine through us! God bless!