06/01/2026
The disciples all deserted Jesus when he was detained to be crucified, Peter denied him 3 times, and we read here that after the resurrection Thomas still doubted. What sticks out to me is they were all restored even after such a large betrayal of their Lord. It bothers me that Thomas was stuck with the nick name âdoubting Thomasâ. In this story he was hurt and disappointed but earlier in the scripture when Jesus announced His appearing in Jerusalem Thomas spoke up and said âwe will go with Him and die with Himâ. This group that messed up and seemingly betrayed Jesus are the same ones who âturned the world upside down for Jesusâ. We know Peter probably preached the best sermon ever preached. 3000 were saved that day. So, when you think you have blown it and you arenât salvageable thatâs a lie from the pit of hell. Jesus loves you and He knew before you came to Him you werenât perfect and youâd blow it. But He loves you any way. The disciples turned it around. What are you going to do?
âThomas, one of the twelve apostles, who was called Didymus, wasnât with them when Jesus came. The other disciples told him, âWeâve seen the Lord.â
Thomas told them, âI refuse to believe this unless I see the nail marks in his hands, put my fingers into them, and put my hand into his side.â
A week later Jesusâ disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Even though the doors were locked, Jesus stood among them and said, âPeace be with you!â Then Jesus said to Thomas, âPut your finger here, and look at my hands. Take your hand, and put it into my side. Stop doubting, and believe.â
Thomas responded to Jesus, âMy Lord and my God!â
Jesus said to Thomas, âYou believe because youâve seen me. Blessed are those who havenât seen me but believe.â
Jesus performed many other miracles that his disciples saw. Those miracles are not written in this book. But these miracles have been written so that you will believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and so that you will have life by believing in him.â