In the other gospels, Thomas appears only as a name on the list of disciples (Matthew 10:3, Mark 3:18, Luke 6:15). In John, however, Thomas appears not just in a list of disciples but is featured in three stories. Out looking to follow Jesus unto death, out where those who would harm him could find him, Thomas missed Jesus. Thomas’ belief that he could and would follow Jesus unto death is re-cast. His question of how to follow Jesus to where he is going is answered. Following Jesus leads not just to death, but beyond.
- Thomas doesn’t doubt Jesus, he doubts this friends. How does our mistrust of our fellow believers cause us to miss out on Jesus?
- What were they afraid of? Fear didn’t keep two of them from sprinting to the tomb when they heard the body was gone. After the tomb, they returned home. Why were they now locked in a room? Now faced with reality of resurrection, why were they paralyzed?