John 20:24-25 24But Thomas, one of the twelve, the one called the Didymos, was not with them when Jesus came. 25So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never ever believe.”
The next episode of the dawning of faith focuses on Thomas, who had the nickname of Didymos, meaning “Twin,” probably for obvious reasons. Little is said about the Apostle Thomas in the Synoptic Gospels other than being listed as one of the twelve inner-circle disciples whom Jesus chose and sent out. He is famous for the passage here in John. We get a brief glimpse of his growing faith in 11:16 when he bravely encouraged the other disciples to go with Jesus to Jerusalem and die. He also expressed the desire to follow Jesus in 14:5 but just did not know the way. Based on these small hints, it appears he had a lot of hope placed in Jesus.
Thomas’ response to the news of Jesus’ resurrection in verse 25 suggests that his hope was thoroughly dashed with the death of Jesus. His response was forceful and detailed as he went down the list of proofs he required for his hope and faith to be restored. He is often blamed for his doubting, and so given the label “Doubting Thomas.” However, he was not present when Jesus appeared to the disciples, and the rest of the disciples were just as confused and unbelieving as he. They were all in the same position. It could also be that he was not present when Peter and John came from the tomb or the two from Emmaus returned with the news.
Thomas represents someone who had not heard the good news of Jesus. People like this are missing out on the message, and when they hear it. They need something to prove its truth to them. His response is very strong in the Greek with never ever (ou mē). He wanted irrefutable proof that Jesus was alive. Thomas is like those who are interested and want to believe but need some proof to confirm their hope. Many people have been disappointed by the church or Christians and just need to see and experience Jesus. Jesus may not come in person as he did for Thomas, but Jesus will come in other ways if we are ready and watching.
For older posts, click here.
