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Thomas: How to NOT Let One Moment Define You

Thomas. When you hear that name in a Biblical context, what’s the first thing you think? I’d be willing to bet some money that the word doubt immediately popped into your mind. Doubting Thomas—that’s the nickname we typically give him. And, to be fair, he did express doubt. In John 20, Jesus appeared to His disciples for the first time after His resurrection. Thomas wasn’t with them at the time, and when they told him that they’d seen the risen Jesus, Thomas doubted. 

 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But [Thomas] said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” -John 20:25

And that was it for Thomas! He questioned whether or not a man who had just been brutally crucified was now living again, and he forever goes down in history as Doubting Thomas. To be honest, I’m just relieved that I wasn’t the one put on the spot in that situation. I’m not sure I would’ve reacted any differently than Thomas did! What about you?

Thomas isn’t mentioned by name too many times in the New Testament, but just in case you’re curious, here’s what he was doing the other times his name appears in Scripture: 

  • Leaving behind his family, friends and livelihood to follow Jesus (Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15).
  • Going out, sent by Jesus, to drive out evil spirits and heal people of sickness and disease (Matthew 10:3). 
  • Encouraging the disciples to accompany Jesus back to Judea, where the Jews were trying to kill Him, so Jesus wouldn’t be alone in such a difficult circumstance (John 11:16).
  • Asking Jesus questions to try and better understand His teachings (John 14:5).
  • Declaring Jesus as his Lord and God after touching His nail-pierced hands and side (John 20:26-28). 
  • Fishing with the rest of the other disciples after Jesus’ resurrection (John 21:1-3).
  • Praying with the disciples, the women and Jesus’ mother and brothers after His ascension (Acts 1:13-14). 

Of course, this isn’t ALL Thomas did! The disciples are referenced as a group throughout the New Testament! But these are the only times his name is specifically mentioned. Later in his life, history tells us that Thomas was martyred in the midst of his missionary work in building the early church. 

I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling a bit sheepish for ever labeling this disciple as Doubting Thomas. He sure did express clear doubt, but he also demonstrated many acts of devotion, self-sacrifice and bold faith. Perhaps we focus so strongly on Thomas’ moment of doubt since it’s right there in the same chapter as the resurrection story, which obviously is one of the most well-known stories of the entire Bible. But whatever the reason may be, I think it’s important to remember that Thomas was more than just that one moment. He did falter when the spotlight was on him, but he was also steadfast and bold in both big and small moments throughout Jesus’ earthly ministry and beyond. This fills me with hope as I navigate life as someone who loves Jesus but falls short time and time again. Thomas’ story can teach us so much about God and ourselves.

What can we learn about God from Thomas’ story? 

  • God uses imperfect people.
  • God equips His people for what He calls them to do.
  • He can handle your doubts and questions.
  • He will continue to work in and through you even after your moments of falling short. He does not discount you and give up on your potential after your moments of unbelief.
  • God gives second chances.
  • Though people falter and change, God stays the same—always. 
  • God answers your questions. 

What can we learn about people/ourselves from Thomas’ story? 

  • You will mess up. You will disappoint yourself and the people around you because you are imperfect. But you can still expect God to stick with you by meeting you where you are, taking your hand, and leading you forward.
  • It’s okay to be honest with God about your doubts and questions. 
  • Be careful not to label yourself or another person based on one isolated incident. Be a carrier of God’s grace, compassion, mercy and forgiveness!
  • Rather than staying stuck in guilt or shame, you can always look ahead to God’s healing and restoration.
  • Through the ups and downs of life, you stand on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ.

What else do you learn about God from Thomas? What do you learn about yourself? How can you apply that to your life today? Pick out the one lesson you’re learning from Thomas—you know, that one that’s resonating in your heart right now—and talk to God about it in prayer. Write it down somewhere where you’ll see it, and let that lesson move you forward in faith.