What Does It Mean To Doubt?

02Open up with the article called “Center For Bible Engagement (CBE) Scientific EVidence For THe Power of 4”

Doubting one's faith as a Christian is a complex and often deeply personal experience. It can arise from various life circumstances—perhaps facing a significant loss, grappling with injustice, or encountering scientific perspectives that challenge traditional beliefs. For many, these moments of doubt can feel isolating, as they may fear being judged or misunderstood within their faith communities.

In conversations about doubt, it’s important to highlight that it’s a common part of the spiritual journey. Many prominent figures in the Bible, like David or Thomas, experienced doubt. Their struggles are often depicted as a natural part of their relationship with God, showing that doubt doesn’t have to lead to despair but can instead foster growth and deeper relationship with Christ.

When discussing what it means to doubt, one could explore the notion that doubt doesn’t equate to disbelief. It can be a catalyst for seeking deeper understanding, prompting individuals to ask tough questions about their faith, the nature of God, and the teachings they’ve accepted. This can involve studying scripture more intently, engaging in theological discussions, or exploring different interpretations of faith.

Moreover, doubt can bring about a sense of vulnerability. Many people find themselves in a place where they question the very foundations of their beliefs. This can be scary, but it also opens the door to authentic conversations with others who may be experiencing similar struggles. Sharing doubts can foster a sense of community and support, creating an environment where individuals feel safe to express their concerns and seek guidance.

Doubt can also lead examine what faith means on a personal level. It can push someone to define their beliefs outside of inherited traditions, allowing them to form a more personal and resilient faith.

(GIVE AN EXAMPLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND CATHOLIC BELIEFS)

This process might include embracing a more nuanced understanding of scripture, considering the historical and cultural context of biblical texts, or exploring various theological perspectives.

Ultimately, the experience of doubt can be transformative. Many individuals emerge from their periods of questioning with a stronger, more authentic faith, having worked through their uncertainties and found answers—or learned to live with the questions. It can also deepen compassion for others who struggle with their beliefs, fostering a sense of humility and understanding.

In sharing these thoughts, it could be valuable to invite others to reflect on their own journeys. How have they navigated doubt? What practices have helped them in those times? By opening up this dialogue, we create space for honesty and connection, reminding one another that doubt can be a part of a vibrant and evolving faith life. How do you think we can support one another in these moments of uncertainty?

Doubting Thomas is a powerful figure in the Christian narrative when it comes to discussing faith and doubt. After Jesus’ resurrection, Thomas famously declared that he would not believe until he could see and touch Jesus’ wounds. His skepticism resonates with many who have experienced doubt in their faith journey.

In conversations about faith, Thomas embodies the struggle between belief and doubt. His story highlights that questioning isn’t inherently negative; rather, it can be a genuine response to life’s uncertainties. Thomas wasn’t just dismissive; he wanted to seek evidence for himself, reflecting a desire for a deeper, more personal understanding of his faith.

This parallel can open up a rich discussion. Many people, like Thomas, grapple with moments when faith feels abstract or distant. They might ask: “Is what I believe truly real? How do I know?” Just as Thomas needed physical proof, many today seek tangible experiences of faith, whether through prayer, community, or personal revelations.

Lets look at Thomas life before and after the death of Jesus:

Thomas, often referred to as "Doubting Thomas," is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly in the context of faith and doubt. Here's an overview of Thomas's life before and after Jesus' death.

Before Jesus' Death

Background:

Identity: Thomas is often identified as "Thomas Didymus," with "Didymus" meaning "twin" in Greek. The Bible does not provide much information about his early life or family.Occupation: Like many of the apostles, Thomas was likely a fisherman or engaged in trade, possibly indicating a humble background.

Calling:

Becoming a Disciple: Thomas was called by Jesus to be one of the twelve apostles. His commitment to follow Jesus indicates a willingness to leave behind his previous life for a new path.Experiences with Jesus: Throughout Jesus’ ministry, Thomas would have witnessed miracles, teachings, and pivotal events, forming a close bond with Jesus and the other disciples.

Character:

Loyalty and Doubt: Thomas is sometimes characterized as loyal but also skeptical. For example, in John 11:16, when Jesus decided to go to Judea despite threats, Thomas said, “Let us also go, that we may die with him,” reflecting his courage.

After Jesus' Death

Post-Resurrection:

Doubt and Recognition: After Jesus’ resurrection, Thomas was absent when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples. When they told him about it, he famously expressed doubt, stating he would not believe unless he could see and touch Jesus’ wounds (John 20:24-25).The Encounter: A week later, Jesus appeared to Thomas and invited him to touch his wounds. Thomas’s response was one of profound faith: “My Lord and my God!” This moment signifies a transformation from doubt to belief.

Role in the Early Church:

Evangelism: Following the events of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Thomas became an active evangelist. Tradition holds that he traveled to regions beyond Judea, particularly to India, to spread the Gospel.Martyrdom: According to various traditions, Thomas was martyred for his faith. The specifics of his death vary across accounts, but he is often revered as a martyr who remained steadfast in his beliefs.

Legacy:

Patronage: Thomas is recognized as the patron saint of architects and builders, reflecting the idea of building faith and community.

Cultural Impact: His story, particularly the encounter with the resurrected Jesus, has resonated with countless believers facing their own doubts. The term "Doubting Thomas" has entered popular culture, symbolizing skepticism in the face of faith.

In summary, Thomas’s life before Jesus' death was marked by a transition from a fisherman to a devoted disciple, while his post-resurrection life was characterized by profound faith and a commitment to spreading Jesus' teachings, even in the face of adversity Interestingly, Thomas’s story doesn’t end with his doubt. When Jesus appears to him and invites him to touch His wounds, Thomas’s faith is affirmed and deepened. This moment shows that doubt can lead to a transformative encounter with God. It suggests that questioning can actually pave the way for a more profound experience of faith. In a similar vein, people today might find that their doubts lead them to seek out answers, engage in discussions, or explore their beliefs more deeply. This process can yield growth and a more resilient faith, just as Thomas’s experience did.

Moreover, Thomas’s story offers reassurance that questioning is a part of the journey. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. Just as the other disciples may have initially judged Thomas for his doubt, many within faith communities today can create space for those who are wrestling with their beliefs.

Ultimately, the story of Doubting Thomas encourages us to embrace doubt as a natural part of faith. It can lead to deeper understanding, stronger convictions, and a more authentic relationship with God. Just as Thomas’s encounter transformed him, our own moments of questioning can deepen our faith and connect us more closely to the divine.

Lets look at what Jesus said in John 20:27 “Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

Many skeptics of religion, especially of Christianity, demand proof far beyond what's reasonable. Scripture approves of cautious skepticism (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1; 2 Corinthians 13:5). It does not indulge those who are simply trying to excuse their choice not to believe. A common result of this is known as "moving the goal posts;" this expression means demanding a level of certainty, only to re-define or re-locate those requirements after the original demand is met. In this way, no matter what happens, the person can continue to claim there is not enough evidence. In Thomas' case, Jesus had predicted His own resurrection (John 2:19–22). Thomas had seen Him bring people out of death (John 11:43–44). Eyewitnesses had seen Jesus, in person, alive after His crucifixion (John 20:17–18; Luke 24:10–11; 23–24). Christ had even appeared in a locked room, speaking to Thomas' fellow disciples (John 20:19–24). Rather than accept the obvious, Thomas made what he likely thought was an absurd, impossible demand: to put his own fingers into Jesus' crucifixion wounds before believing in the resurrection (John 20:25). When Jesus reappears, again in a locked room, He challenges Thomas to make good on his claim. Jesus is now there, in the flesh, offering Thomas the opportunity to do what he said was needed to make him believe. Jesus' comment here indicates that Thomas' choice is exactly that: a decision not to accept what he ought to believe. This is a common theme among those who reject faith in Christ (John 5:39–40). Thomas has not been sincere, he has been obstinate. The question he is now faced with is whether he will continue to "move the goal posts," or admit the truth. Scripture does not say, explicitly, whether Thomas literally did this or not. The flow of John's account makes it seem he did not. Rather, he appears to immediately respond to Jesus' mere presence. Whether Thomas touched Jesus' wounds, or not, his response is—finally—the correct one. He will accept the truth and acknowledge Jesus for who He is!

Now lets look at James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” before this James lays that the foundation for the rest of his letter when he stated in James 1:2–4“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

You see in these verses James revealed that the Christian life is about cultivating a deeper trust in God as trials come our way. In fact, those trials are exactly what we need in order to learn to trust God more. Here, James begins to describe what it looks like to trust God in a wide variety of circumstances. In this context, James is speaking of wisdom for a particular moment. This is a reference to those times when we just don't know what to do. What's the best choice? Which way should we go? How do we decide between two different paths? Those who truly trust God will ask Him for wisdom. Asking God for wisdom is evidence that we trust Him. James states that God gives wisdom generously. He's not stingy in providing insight to those who ask how to make the best choices. In fact, God gives wisdom away without "reproach" or finding fault. In other words, He doesn't look at all of our previous foolish choices and decide we are not worthy of receiving wisdom from Him. What an amazing promise! The God of the universe stands by ready and willing to give abundant wisdom to those who ask based only on their trust and confidence in Him, not on their track record. One way God reveals His wisdom to us is in His Word, the Bible. But the written Word is not the only way God supplies us with wisdom. Other Scripture encourages us to seek God's wisdom in wise and godly counselors (Proverbs 11:14) and through observing His creation (Psalm 19:1), for example. But the ultimate source of all wisdom is God Himself.

However moving forward James does say something interesting about doubt and lets take a look. In James 1:6–7“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.” Is this a contradiction to doubting Thomas? NO! Here is why:

The passages in James 1:6-7 and the story of Thomas in John 20:24-29 highlight different aspects of doubt and faith, but they don’t necessarily contradict each other; rather, they offer complementary perspectives.

James 1:6-7

In this passage, James writes:

“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.”

Here, James emphasizes the importance of faith and unwavering belief when approaching God in prayer. He suggests that doubt can hinder one's relationship with God and the effectiveness of prayer, warning that a doubter should not expect to receive anything.

Thomas's Doubt

In contrast, Thomas’s doubt arises from a personal and intense longing for proof of Jesus’ resurrection. His skepticism reflects a desire for understanding and assurance in a pivotal moment. When he finally encounters the resurrected Jesus, his doubt transforms into a profound declaration of faith.

Complementary Perspectives

Nature of Doubt:

James: In James, the doubt is portrayed as instability or lack of commitment, implying a wavering between belief and disbelief. It can be seen as a caution against a lack of faith when asking for God’s help.Thomas: Thomas’s doubt, however, is more about seeking truth and understanding in a moment of crisis. His eventual faith is affirmed by Jesus, who meets him in his doubt.

Response to Doubt:

James: The emphasis is on the need for steadfast faith in prayer, urging believers to trust God completely.Thomas: Jesus’ response to Thomas demonstrates that doubt can lead to deeper faith and understanding. Instead of condemning Thomas, Jesus meets him where he is, affirming that it’s okay to seek answers.

Encouragement in Struggles:

James encourages believers to approach God confidently and to seek wisdom without wavering, while Thomas's story offers comfort to those who doubt, showing that doubt can lead to profound revelations and strengthened faith.

Conclusion

Rather than contradicting each other, these passages highlight different dimensions of faith and doubt. James underscores the need for unwavering faith in prayer, while Thomas’s story illustrates how doubt can coexist with a genuine search for understanding and ultimately lead to a deeper faith experience.