Thomas was one of the twelve apostles. Thomas followed Jesus during His ministry on earth and witnessed many miracles. There are several secular traditions about Thomas. It is stated that he was a carpenter like Jesus. It is stated that he died in India. One tradition states that he was Jesus’ brother. The Bible does not tell us any of these things.
However, the Bible does tell us a few things about Thomas. On the night that Jesus was betrayed, Jesus was eating with the disciples. Jesus told them that He was going to prepare a place for them. He told them they know the way He was going. Thomas was the one who replied that they do not know the way. Thomas was not scared to admit that he did not know. He did not hesitate to ask how they could know. All of us should be willing to ask that question. How can we know the way to where Jesus went? Jesus replied that He is the way. If we follow Jesus, then we can be where He is. We can thank Thomas for asking that very important question.
After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared to the apostles. However, Thomas was not there. Later, the others told Thomas that Jesus was alive. Thomas would not take their word for it (although he should have). He wanted evidence. He said he would believe if he saw Jesus and His scars in person. About a week later, Jesus appeared to Thomas. When Thomas saw the evidence, he fully believed the facts. He did not attempt to come up with excuses not to believe. While we do not see Jesus in person, we have overwhelming evidence of His resurrection. The Bible gives us an accurate account of Jesus and His life, including death, burial and resurrection. Jesus stated in John 20:29 that those of us who believe but have not personally seen Him would be blessed. Jesus was not saying that we are blessed because we believe without any evidence. He was saying we are blessed because we believe the biblical evidence we are given.
Are you a Thomas? Do you ask the right questions? Do you want the right evidence? Study your Bible. Learn all you can from it. Obey God.
