Scripture: John 20

Key points to ponder: If the last chapter was the climax of the book of John, this is the resolution. This is where the deepest depths of suffering and pain lead to pure joy and victory. Jesus lives, and the disciples finally understand what he meant all along when he talked about his death and resurrection (ch. 16:16) He appears to Mary and then the disciples so that they would believe and trust in his ultimate authority (vs. 8, 31).

Challenging terms: The linen cloths (vs. 5-7) were literally bound around Jesus (ch. 19: 40), so for them to be left lying in the tomb would mean that no one stole his body because they wouldn’t have bothered to take off the linen wraps or carefully fold the face cloth. This is, perhaps, why John believed when he saw this. (v. 8).

Questions: How can you relate to Thomas? What do you notice about how Jesus responds to Thomas?

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for being victorious over death and giving us all that same victory as we believe in you!

Consider praying that Jesus would help you believe, truly believe, what he has done for you, so that you can experience true life.