When people struggle with the claims of Christianity, where do they go? Where do you go when you doubt?
That’s one of the most important questions you can ask because doubt rarely remains neutral. It always takes us somewhere. For some, doubt leads to cynicism. For others, it leads to isolation. Many quietly drift away from church and community, convinced they have to figure everything out before they belong. And, let’s be honest, many churches don’t have room for those who doubt.
I’m struck by the fact that Thomas chose a different path.
After refusing to believe the other disciples’ testimony, Thomas made his doubts known. But then notice what John tells us: “Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them” (John 20:26). Thomas hadn’t resolved his questions. He hadn’t seen Jesus yet; he was still doubting and unable to believe the resurrection had taken place, but he stayed with the community. He was still a part of the church.
That detail is easy to miss, but it may be the most important part of the story. In his book After Doubt, A.J. Swoboda writes that doubt is not a sign that faith has failed. In many ways, it is evidence that our faith is being stretched beyond easy answers. The real danger isn’t in asking hard questions; it’s believing we have to ask them alone.
Thomas refused to pretend, but he also refused to disappear. And it was there, in the middle of a community, still carrying unanswered questions, that Jesus met him. Jesus didn’t shame Thomas for doubting. He invited him closer, saying, “Put your finger here… Do not disbelieve, but believe” (John 20:27). Thomas’ honest wrestling became the doorway to one of Scripture’s greatest confessions: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28).
Doubt didn’t define Thomas; Jesus did. If you’re carrying questions today, don’t assume you have to hide them or solve them before you belong. Bring them into the light. Share them with trusted followers of Jesus. Stay connected to the body of Christ. More often than we’d like, Jesus meets us not after we’ve figured everything out, but while we’re faithfully remaining with His people.
Reflect: Where do you instinctively go when doubts arise? Do you move toward trusted community, or away from it? Are you a safe person for others to process their doubt and struggles with? What would it look like to stay in the room long enough for Jesus to meet you there?
Ryan Paulson
Lead Pastor