John·Chapter 20

How to Apply

Start by being honest with yourself about your doubts. Write them down or talk to a friend about what’s holding you back. Then, take a step to explore those doubts. Maybe read a book, watch a documentary, or have a conversation with someone who has different beliefs. Just like Thomas was invited to touch Jesus’ wounds, allow yourself to seek tangible answers in a way that feels right for you. This week, find a moment to reflect on what belief means to you and how you can take small steps toward trust, even in the face of uncertainty.

Chapter Context

To understand this moment, we need to step back a bit. After Jesus was crucified, His friends were devastated and scared. They locked themselves away, unsure of what to do next. When Jesus first appeared to them, Thomas wasn’t there. When his friends told him they had seen Jesus alive, he couldn’t believe it. So, when Jesus shows up again, right when Thomas is present, it’s a dramatic shift. This verse is the climax of that tension—Thomas goes from doubting to believing in a heartbeat. It’s a pivotal moment that transforms the chapter from fear and uncertainty into a declaration of faith. Jesus is not just alive; He’s inviting Thomas—and you—into a deeper relationship.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• then - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• said - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• thomas - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• put - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• your - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• finger - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• here - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• see - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• my - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What doubts do you have that you need to bring to the light, just like Thomas did? How might exploring those doubts lead you to a deeper understanding of belief?

Related Verses

• Matthew 28:17 - After Jesus rose from the dead, some of His followers doubted, showing that doubt is a common struggle.
• Isaiah 53:5 - Written 700 years before, it predicted a suffering servant, connecting to Jesus’ wounds and the need for proof.
• John 14:1 - Jesus tells His followers not to let their hearts be troubled, emphasizing trust even in tough times.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 20:27. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Resurrection, Faith, Grief and Joy, Recognition of Jesus, Mission and Commissioning, Peace, Transformation

Key Verses

John 20:1, John 20:9, John 20:16, John 20:19, John 20:21

Historical Context

John's Gospel is the last of the four Gospels written, likely composed between 85-95 AD. It aims to present Jesus as the Son of God, emphasizing His divine nature and the significance of His miracles and teachings. Chapter 20 is crucial as it provides the account of Jesus' resurrection, which is foundational for Christian belief. This chapter also serves to address the doubts and fears of the disciples, offering them reassurance and a mission following Jesus' resurrection. The narrative style is reflective, focusing on personal encounters and theological implications, and it supplements the accounts found in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).