Grace Lutheran Church

Thomas makes key appearances in John’s Gospel.  “When Jesus resolves to run the danger of returning to Judea from beyond the Jordan, Thomas’ comment reveals both a pessimistic outlook and a spirit of intense loyalty and bravery (11:16). When Jesus assumes that the disciples know the way to the Father’s house to which he is going soon, Thomas is humble and candid enough to confess openly his ignorance of Jesus’ meaning (14:5). He can be convinced of the reality of the Resurrection only by incontrovertible evidence (20:24-28). When such evidence is produced, he is represented as capable of lofty expressions of faith.”  (Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible) Jesus appeared to the gathered disciples in a locked room on the first Easter evening.  They were stunned into believing what they had heard from Mary that morning.  But Thomas was not present.  He gained the moniker “Doubting Thomas” because to believe in Jesus’ resurrection, he wanted what they experienced – Jesus in the flesh.  Until he saw Jesus, he would doubt their account.  When Jesus appears again to the disciples including Thomas, Thomas professes his faith.

Thomas was with Jesus throughout his earthly ministry.  His loyalty to Jesus is highlighted in the Gospel of John.  And yet he struggled to believe the resurrection account until he saw him. 

 

Toward the end of John’s Gospel, Jesus states that blessed are those who have faith without seeing him physically.  That is where we are, brought to faith through the presence and gifts of the Holy Spirit.  It is not always an easy place.  But if there is a place at the table for Thomas (and the other disciples), I trust there is a seat for us. For ultimately it is not about our amount of faith, but the love of Jesus that seats us there.

 

Scripture is silent about Thomas after the first chapter of Acts.  However, according to legend, Thomas traveled to India where he proclaimed the saving grace of Christ and planted churches.