CROSSPOINT: Doubts can draw us closer to God.
Key Scripture: John 20:24-29 ESV
1. Why do people doubt?
A. Situations that seem unfair.
B. Unresolved pain or “Church hurts.”
C. Questions we can’t answer.
2. How do we deal with doubts?
A. Realize that doubts are a part of our faith journey.
B. Understand that Jesus comes to us in our doubts.
John 20:26-27
C. Keep showing up. Keep asking questions. Keep seeking Truth.
Jude 1:20-22 ESV
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; “
3. The strongest faith is not a faith that never doubts. The strongest faith is a faith that grows in spite of doubts.
Questions to Consider:
1. Why do you think Thomas was not with the other disciples when Jesus first rose from the dead and appeared to them in the upper room? Why do you think Jesus waited 7 days before appearing to Thomas? How did Jesus deal with the doubts of Thomas?
2. What did Jesus mean when he said, “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed?”
3. What have you found helpful in times of doubt? What encourages you most during those times?
4. Have you ever had to help doubting family or friends through a crisis of belief? What have you done to help others that may be doubting?
