See and Believe
Teaching Pastor; Staff Governing Elder; Staff Director
As he concludes his account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, John tells his audience that he has written these things so they might believe. We can take comfort that while we may not physically see the resurrected Jesus, God has given us credible witnesses to strengthen our faith, and he has a special blessing for those who believe without seeing.
Study Questions
As he concludes his account of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, John tells his audience that he has written these things so they might believe. We can take comfort that while we may not physically see the resurrected Jesus, God has given us credible witnesses to strengthen our faith, and he has a special blessing for those who believe without seeing.Application
In our culture, it’s easy to deceive ourselves into thinking we have faith when we don’t. Take some time to reflect on these distinguishing marks of a believer:
- Is not at home in this world, even when things are going well
- Does not live in constant despair when things go wrong
- Serves with joy those for whom Jesus came
- Gives generously without fear of the future
- Forgives others freely, confident that God will bring justice
- Confesses sin in community, secure in the gospel
As you consider the question—do I believe?—remember, our journey of faith happens in community. If you are wrestling with this issue, please reach out to a leader or pastor at your campus.
Key Points
The role of sight is significant—the disciples and Mary Magdalene unite their seeing with understanding, which leads to the action of belief.
Mary, who is marginalized in her culture, is the first human to meet and bear witness to the resurrected Jesus. God chooses those out of the flow of their culture to advance his Kingdom.
When Jesus is first reunited with his disciples, he greets them in fellowship, commissions them with a mission, and prepares them to receive power and authority as they spread the gospel.
God will judge the world; however, he calls us to both hold each other accountable and extend forgiveness within the body of believers.
Thomas had to see Jesus in order to believe in his resurrection. Jesus then declares that those who believe without seeing will receive a special blessing.