Life seems out of control so often that it can cause us to question everything, including God. Doubt is not the opposite of faith, but is a common experience to all who have faith. The problem with Thomas was that he was entertaining ideas and ultimatums that were causing him to become disbelieving (v. 27).  

Chapter 20 is about the move from seeing the resurrected Jesus to believing without seeing. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (v.29).  We can “see” Jesus through the witnesses in Holy Scripture. If we look closely, we’ll notice how competent Jesus is to lead our lives. This should give us plenty of reasons to renew our trust in him.

Jesus’ ministry was in control always, and he still is in control today.

Jesus never ran anywhere. He never was rushing or frantic. Although at points he was urgent and moving with resolve, he had a general calm about him. This is because he fully trusted the Father and was fulfilling the steps of a perfect plan.

Jesus controlled who saw his resurrected body and when they saw it. Mary Magdalene was his choice to become what the early church called “the apostle to the Apostles.”

Jesus couldn’t be locked out physically. At least twice, he simply entered through locked doors (v. 19, 26).

Jesus knew Thomas’ doubt without having to be told. He patiently helped him overcome it. Thomas took two steps ahead of the others by declaring Jesus to be his Lord and his God (v. 28).

Taking It Home: Read through the Gospels and notice the calm control Jesus demonstrated. Nothing surprised him, except when he marveled at exceptional faith in unlikely people. Become believing and overcome doubt by looking closely.