John 20:24-31


"Now Thomas, one of the Twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, 'We have seen the Lord.' But he said to them, 'Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.' Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you.' Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.' Thomas answered him, 'My Lord and my God!' Jesus said to him, 'Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.' Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." (John 20:24-31 ESV)


From Doubt to Faith

This passage in John highlights the moment of transformation in Thomas, often called "Doubting Thomas," who moves from skepticism to worship as he encounters the risen Christ. Thomas' demand for physical evidence reflects human nature’s struggle with doubt, especially in the face of something as extraordinary as the resurrection. Yet, Jesus does not rebuke Thomas harshly; instead, He meets Thomas in his doubt, showing him His wounds as proof of His resurrection. This compassionate interaction demonstrates Jesus' willingness to meet us where we are, even in moments of uncertainty.

Jesus invites Thomas to touch the wounds that testify to His sacrificial love and victory over death. In response, Thomas declares, "My Lord and my God!"—a profound confession of faith in the divinity and lordship of Jesus. For us, this moment is a reminder that doubts, when brought to Christ, can lead to deeper faith. The resurrected Christ still reveals Himself today through His Word and by the power of the Holy Spirit, calling us to trust in Him even when we cannot physically see Him.

Scriptures to Study:

James 1:5-6, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 11:1, John 14:1


Blessed Are Those Who Believe

Jesus' words to Thomas—"Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed"—carry a powerful message for all future believers. Faith is not merely about seeing or experiencing; it is about trusting in what God has revealed through His Word and through the testimony of those who have gone before us. As disciples, we are called to believe in the risen Christ, trusting the historical and Scriptural witness of His resurrection. The blessing Jesus speaks of here is for those who walk by faith, relying on the truth of the Gospel rather than needing physical evidence.

This passage emphasizes the role of faith in the Christian life. It is by faith that we are saved, and it is through faith that we receive the promises of God. Jesus calls us to a faith that is active, not passive—one that trusts Him even when we face doubts or uncertainties. This kind of faith is sustained by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to believe in the truth of Christ and live according to His Word.

Scriptures to Study:

Romans 10:17, 1 Peter 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 4:18, Hebrews 10:38-39


Life in His Name

John concludes this passage by stating the purpose of his Gospel: "These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." The goal of all Scripture is to point us to Christ, to lead us into faith, and to bring us into the abundant life He offers. The resurrection is the cornerstone of this life, as it demonstrates Jesus' victory over sin and death, securing eternal life for all who believe.

True life is found in Jesus alone. To "have life in his name" means more than just physical existence; it means entering into a relationship with the living God, experiencing the peace, joy, and purpose that comes from knowing and following Him. This life begins the moment we believe and continues into eternity. It is sustained by the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, who helps us grow in faith and empowers us to live out the Gospel daily.

Scriptures to Study:

John 10:10, Ephesians 2:4-5, Colossians 3:3-4, 1 John 5:11-13


Summary of Key Points


Life Application Questions