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Question and Answer

I often hear the apostle Thomas described as “doubting Thomas,” a bad example. When I read the story, I wonder if that’s the sum of who he was?

Just this Easter, my pastor preached a defense of Thomas! Thomas is often reduced to his experience with doubt, but there is more to his story. When other disciples tried to keep Jesus from going to Bethany to raise Lazarus from the dead because He might be in danger, Thomas said to them, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:8–16). According to church history, Thomas went to share the gospel in India, where he was martyred.

Even more importantly, Jesus took Thomas seriously, as He takes every one of us who comes through a period of doubt. This passage becomes a great comfort when seen in that light. True, Thomas was not there on Easter Sunday night—but he was present a week later, when Christ appeared again to His disciples. Jesus told Thomas to touch His wounds, then said, “Stop doubting, and believe.” Overcome, Thomas uttered his unforgettable confession: “My Lord and my God!” What a transformation! In this way, Thomas’s story becomes a record of doubt that turned into conviction and unshakable love for Jesus. The Bible’s record of problematic behaviors should never be read as an endorsement.

BY Dr. Rosalie de Rosset

Dr. Rosalie de Rosset has been teaching at Moody Bible Institute in the Communications Department for over five decades. She is occasionally featured on Moody Radio. Rosalie is a published author, respected speaker, and talented writer. She lives on the northside of Chicago, a city she enjoys for its natural beauty and multi-faceted art offerings.

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