(Prof. St Thomas Orthodox Theological Seminary Nagpur, member of St George Orthodox Church Thekkuthode of the Diocese of Thumpamon.)
April 11
Jn. 20:24-29
This is an excellent passage on conviction and confession. It is the conviction of Thomas led him for the great confession
Thomas’ frustrated and, reactionary spirit. Thomas had not been with the disciples when Jesus first appeared to them. Like many today he staunchly refused to believe that Jesus had actually risen from the dead. The disciples testified and bore witness to the glorious truth, but Thomas become stiff-necked and obstinate in his unbelief. He even argued against their testimony. He was deeply aggravated and frustrated, feeling great disappointment and guilt. The depth of his aggravation and guilt is seen in his repulsive shout “unless I see … put my finger… into his side, I will not believe it”. The experience of Thomas teaches us that persistent doubt always delays the blessings.
Thomas false picture of Jesus. Thomas had always thought in terms of an earthly Messiah who would make things better upon this earth and in this life. He refused to see beyond the human and physical things of this world. Therefore, he could see Jesus only as the man who was nailed to the cross and had a spear thrust into His side and was now dead. The false picture of Jesus leads to unbelief.
Thomas critical confrontation and conviction. The doors were again shut and locked. Suddenly, unexpectedly Jesus stood in the midst of the disciples. Again He eased their shock by giving the normal greeting: “peace be with you.” He turned immediately to confront Thomas. Jesus revealed that He knew all about Thomas’ unbelief and demands. He used the very same words Thomas had demanded: “ put your finger here, see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Jesus knows every man’s heart: his despair, doubts, fears, hope, and love. He knows where and when to strike at a man’s heart. Thomas exclaimed “My Lord and My God”. This is one of the greatest confessions in Scripture. That event changed the convictions of Thomas that Jesus is the risen Lord and God, Sovereign majesty of the universe.
