Sermon Response Guide
PRIMARY SCRIPTURE: John 20:1-29
Key Points
- Doubt is a normal part of our ongoing journey of faith.
- Doubt does not necessarily lead to disbelief.
- Doubt can lead to greater belief when it is processed properly:
1) in the presence of God
2) in the truth of God’s Word
3) in the context of a God-given community of faith - Deconstruction of doubt can lead to reconstruction of faith in Jesus.
Memory Verse
Ask God to write this word on your heart this week:
“Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”
- John 20:29 ESV
Questions for Reflection
Take time to reflect and respond to these questions on your own in the presence of the Holy Spirit, or with trusted friends or family members:
1: How have you experienced doubt lately?
2: Why do you doubt? In other words, where does doubt come from?
3: What would it look like for you to “doubt your doubts?” Why might that be a worthwhile practice?
4: How has your view of Thomas changed after hearing today’s message? How do you see yourself in Thomas, the “Twin?”
5: Read John 20:24-29. How has your view of Jesus changed after hearing this word preached? Where do you see Jesus in your doubts?
6: What does the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus reveal to us about doubt?
7: What message of hope is Jesus offering you today?
8: How will you respond?
Pray
Lord, it is by grace we have been saved – through faith – not by works, so not one of us may boast. We acknowledge our doubts and confess we have disbelieved. Lord, help us believe. Even in the face of doubt and discouragement, even in the face of disappointment – help us believe in you. Because of your resurrection and the gift of your Holy Spirit, we don’t have to get to know you through someone else. We are free to come to you and get to know you ourselves. The same Spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the dead lives in all of us who believe. Lord, help us to build our lives on the firm foundation of belief in your name above all names. You are risen – high and above every doubt, discouragement, and disappointment. Indeed, we believe.
