Week of Apr 27
John 20:19-31
OPENER
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Jesus breathed on his disciples and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit”. If you could breathe something non-spiritual onto your CG to instantly give them a funny or silly characteristic for a moment, what would it be?
DISCUSSION
- Read John 20:24-26 Jesus appeared to Thomas a week after appearing to the other disciples. What does this tell you about Jesus’ patience and willingness to meet us in our doubts? How can you be more persistent in seeking God when you have questions?
- Tim Keller said, “A faith without some doubts is like a human body without any antibodies in it.” How have doubts, or questioning your beliefs, strengthened your faith in the past?
- Jesus showed his hands and side to the disciples. What “evidence” or personal experiences have helped you believe in Jesus? How can these moments help you when you face new doubts?
- Great figures in the Bible like John the Baptist and James the brother of Jesus had doubts about Him. How does knowing this encourage you in your own struggles with doubt?
- Read John 20:26 Jesus brings peace, not accusation or condemnation, to those who doubt. How can you extend this same grace and understanding to others when doubts arise?
- Jesus isn’t concerned or offended by your doubts, but he wants to deal with them. What intellectual, emotional or everyday questions or doubts do you currently have about your faith that you could explore further with Jesus?
ACTION STEP
- Jesus told Thomas, “Don’t be faithless, but believe“. What is one step you can take this week to move towards trusting in Jesus in an area where you are doubting Him.
SERMON RESOURCES
- Dealing with Doubt
- When Doubt Seeps In, Look to Thomas
- Six Ways to Fight the Debilitating Power of Doubt
SERIES RESOURCES