In John 20, beginning at the 24th verses, we find the record of what has been deemed, "the doubting of Thomas." This is probably because Thomas would not believe that the ten remaining disciples had actually been with Jesus, talked and walked with Him.

For years we have pointed a nasty finger at Thomas for his rejection of his fellow follower’s story, but wait, maybe he had a reason. Maybe he remembered something the rest had forgotten.

Thomas had not personally seen Jesus. He had only heard accounts relating to Jesus.

Matthew 24:4-5, and 23-24, Jesus tells the disciples that after His departure there would be many who would come in His name. Not under His authority, or by His permission, but they would be using His name as a method of deceiving the very elect.

Thomas, having heard and embraced this possibility, wanted to be sure that the individual the others reported as being Jesus, was in fact Jesus! He wanted no part of a hoax, and therefore set forth a stipulation to prove that Jesus was, in fact, Jesus. Later, in John 20, we see Jesus appearing and requesting that Thomas follow through on his request. Thomas was convinced and honored.

Have you missed Jesus because you had no way of validating the person before you? Don’t miss it! hgt