The opposite of faith is not doubt, rather it is unbelief. Doubting is common to all believers. Having been witnesses to all of Jesus’ miracles and his own resurrected body, the Eleven disciples worshiped him, “but some doubted” (Mat. 28:17). Today’s text in John’s gospel looks specifically at Thomas’ doubt. Verse 27 could literally be translated, “stop becoming disbelieving, but believe.”

Faith is a gift that must be cultivated, but Jesus is worthy of our faith.

Much like a muscle can atrophy, faith can also slide toward unbelief. Consider Thomas’ progression away from trusting Jesus.

1. He was absent from the group on the big day that Jesus promised to rise.
2. He refuses to consider the testimonies of his trusted friends.
3. He makes a vow with his heart to “never believe” unless he can touch.

Jesus, who is gracious to pursue the backslider, rebukes him for his “becoming disbelieving.” Christianity gives us ample evidence that is reasonable and trustworthy. However, it does call us to go beyond reason into mystery. Conversely, atheism is an unreasonable faith system.

When Jesus condescends to Thomas’ demand, Thomas jumps to the head of the class and becomes the first person in John’s Gospel to call him God. “My Lord and my God,” he declares, and Jesus receives his worship. Jesus then gives a blessing (beatitude) to all of us. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Seeing is apparently not believing. So how does one cultivate faith? For starters, just do the reverse of what Thomas did.

Taking It Home: Renounce any harmful heart vows. Consider the testimonies of faith, especially from Scripture for “faith comes from hearing the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Stay connected to the faith community and develop Christian friendships.