THOMAS' CONFESSION

What do you remember most about Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus? I have asked this question to several people. The average answer that emerged was that he was a doubter or skeptic, hard to believe, and needed to see physical evidence to be convinced of something. All these answers refer to the story of how Thomas responded to the testimonies of his companions who had met the risen Christ, when he himself was not there. The name Thomas has become negatively impressed because of his disbelief.

However, if we read carefully, Thomas actually gives us a testimony that is so bold and loud. Eight days later, when he was with the other disciples gathered, Jesus appeared again. At that time, Jesus allowed Thomas to reach out his hand to touch the scars of crucifixion on His hands and side. After that, Thomas proclaimed his faith, "My Lord and my God!" He acknowledged that Jesus was not just a Teacher to him, but the Lord who has power over death and the God who deserves to be worshiped. All his doubts disappeared, replaced by strong faith.

Until now, many people doubt that Christ truly rose from the dead. However, His followers in the first century no longer experienced historical doubts about it. They became eyewitnesses who had direct encounters with the risen Christ. That's what changed their lives. That's also the news they spread that Jesus is Lord. Jesus Himself said, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." --HT/www.renunganharian.net