Confidence in Resurrection Evidence

Have You Believed Because You Have Seen Me?

"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 believe. (John 20:25).
Jesus compassionately offered Thomas proof of His resurrection. Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. (vv 26-27).  Jesus, knowing Thomas's doubt, offered him the opportunity to physically touch and see the wounds he suffered on the cross. Not only that, but that he had risen! Then Jesus said, "Do not disbelieve, but believe. (v. 27) Thomas' response; "My Lord and my God! (v. 28). With these words, Thomas declared his firm belief in the resurrection and, therefore, the deity of Jesus the Messiah and Son of God. Jesus said to him; "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (v 29).
​Jesus looked ahead to a time when such physical evidence would not be available as it was for Thomas. He knew that he would permanently ascend to the Father. Believers would come to saving faith without the privilege of seeing the resurrected Lord. Because of this, Jesus pronounced a special blessing on those who believe without having physically seen as Thomas had the privilege of doing. 

May this encourage your hearts today. He is with us, even when we do not see him. "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (v 29).

LORD, I come to you with thanksgiving in my heart. I thank you for your loving kindness that you have poured out on all of those that believe in you. For you said. "Blessed are those who have not seen yet believe." Thank you for the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, in which you sent as a helper for us. Thank you for the peace you have brought to us between God and your people. We are blessed among all creation. Blessed to be called the children of God and heirs with Christ. Thank you for your words of encouragement through Scripture. It is in Jesus precious name I pray. Amen.