John 20:11-31
Today's Passage: John 20:11-31
It’s hard for us to imagine being in the shoes (well, sandals) of the disciples after Jesus has been crucified and buried. Mary wept at the tomb and wondered where the body had been taken (v. 11-15). There was a significant sense of fear among them in the assumption that they might face the same fate as Jesus did at the hands of the Jews (v. 19). Thomas happened to be absent when Jesus showed himself (v.24), and even with the full council report from the disciples that Jesus has indeed been raised (v. 25), Thomas doubted.
Do these things mark your life in any way: sadness, fear, and doubt? You’re in good company! The initial responses of those closest to Jesus shows they too struggled with things like these. Yet the scriptures paint for us a picture of how to fight against them as they can be real daily opponents to our spiritual growth.
In sadness, remember the resurrection of Christ. When tempted toward sorrow, cling to the good news that Christ is alive and we have a story to tell (17-18).
In fear, hear the words of the resurrected Christ: “Peace be with you (v. 19,21,26)!” Not condemnation or rebuke, but peace. God is sovereign over all situations and has our best in His plans, even if we may not be able to see the good while in the storm. He will hold us fast.
In doubt, look to the wounds of Christ and the proof of His love for you. “Do not disbelieve, but believe (v. 27).” When times of faith testing come, stand firm in confidence that Christ is who He says He is and will carry out the promises He has made. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed (v. 29).”
Be encouraged by the resurrection. Be strengthened that you are not alone in your times of weakness. Have joy, peace, and courage that Christ is indeed alive forevermore and continues to reign in perfection over the earth and over every detail of your life too.
Written By: Drew Dukes
It’s hard for us to imagine being in the shoes (well, sandals) of the disciples after Jesus has been crucified and buried. Mary wept at the tomb and wondered where the body had been taken (v. 11-15). There was a significant sense of fear among them in the assumption that they might face the same fate as Jesus did at the hands of the Jews (v. 19). Thomas happened to be absent when Jesus showed himself (v.24), and even with the full council report from the disciples that Jesus has indeed been raised (v. 25), Thomas doubted.
Do these things mark your life in any way: sadness, fear, and doubt? You’re in good company! The initial responses of those closest to Jesus shows they too struggled with things like these. Yet the scriptures paint for us a picture of how to fight against them as they can be real daily opponents to our spiritual growth.
In sadness, remember the resurrection of Christ. When tempted toward sorrow, cling to the good news that Christ is alive and we have a story to tell (17-18).
In fear, hear the words of the resurrected Christ: “Peace be with you (v. 19,21,26)!” Not condemnation or rebuke, but peace. God is sovereign over all situations and has our best in His plans, even if we may not be able to see the good while in the storm. He will hold us fast.
In doubt, look to the wounds of Christ and the proof of His love for you. “Do not disbelieve, but believe (v. 27).” When times of faith testing come, stand firm in confidence that Christ is who He says He is and will carry out the promises He has made. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed (v. 29).”
Be encouraged by the resurrection. Be strengthened that you are not alone in your times of weakness. Have joy, peace, and courage that Christ is indeed alive forevermore and continues to reign in perfection over the earth and over every detail of your life too.
Written By: Drew Dukes
No Comments