Bible Study
Don’t just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: John 20:19-31.
Sermon Notes
Thomas was not present when the resurrected Jesus appeared to the other disciples. He stridently refused to believe unless he had empirical proof and personal experience. One week later Jesus showed up again and offered him the proof and experience he demanded. With his eyes opened, Thomas rightly declared about Jesus “my Lord and my God!” In response Jesus offers an important word for future disciples, who unlike Thomas, would not receive the same kind of empirical proof and personal experience. He said “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29). Those of us who follow Jesus now, but have not seen him with our physical eyes, walk with an incredible blessing! We are not at a disadvantage. Specifically we have been given the Holy Spirit and the testimony of Holy Scripture.
Sermon Application
- Have you ever felt spiritually “left out?” How did you work through that?
- Is it difficult for you to believe in the historical bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ? If you do believe this, why? If you struggle to believe this, what holds you back?
- Why do you think Thomas declared Jesus to be God?
- Do you believe you are at a disadvantage in the life of faith? How so?
- In what way are the Holy Spirit and Holy Scripture tangible manifestations of the blessing that Jesus pronounces and John 20:29?
Questions?
Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (RForrester@StAndrews.Church).
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