20:24,25
Thomas had not been present at the earlier meeting with Jesus. Naturally, the other disciples told him about their encounter, but Thomas refused to believe them. He wanted hard physical evidence before he was going to believe any of this. This is perhaps the clearest evidence that the early church were not gullible folk who would believe anything. They knew full well that people did not rise from dead, especially when the person had been crucified!
20:26,27
A week later Thomas was given the “proof” that he sought. Once again the disciples were locked in a room, this time Thomas was with them. Jesus appeared again, and again blessed them with peace. Jesus knew what Thomas had said in response to reports of the first meeting, though we are not told how Jesus knew this. Jesus invited Thomas to put his hands into His side, and to see His hands. Then came the command “stop doubting and believe”. God is remarkably patient with our unbelief, but there comes a point where we must take a step of faith.
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