From Doubt to Faith

Written By Eugene Polupan
May 3, 2026

Opening Question
Have you ever been given a nickname, label, or reputation based on one moment? How did it feel?

Read John 20:24–29 slowly.
What word, phrase, or image stands out to you?

01: The Real Thomas
Thomas is often remembered as “Doubting Thomas,” but earlier in John’s Gospel, he says, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11v16). Thomas was not cold, cynical, or distant. He was deeply devoted. His doubt came from disappointment.

Reflection:

  • Where do you see Thomas differently after hearing this message?

  • Why do you think disappointment often disguises itself as doubt?

  • Have you ever pulled back from hope because you were afraid to be disappointed again?

02: Doubt, Disappointment, and Isolation
Thomas was not with the disciples when Jesus first appeared. We are not told why, but we know this: when he was absent from the gathered community, he missed an encounter with the risen Jesus.

Reflection:

  • When you are hurt, disappointed, or confused, do you tend to move toward people or away from them?

  • Why does isolation feel safe in moments of pain?

  • What are some ways Christian community can become a place where doubt is held honestly rather than shamed?

03: We Are Changed by Encounter
Thomas says he will not believe unless he sees and touches Jesus’ wounds. But Jesus does not shame him. He comes close. He invites Thomas to touch the very place of pain.

Reflection:

  • What does Jesus’ response to Thomas teach us about the heart of God?

  • How does it change your view of doubt to see Jesus move toward Thomas rather than away from him?

  • Where might Jesus be inviting you to come closer instead of hiding?

04: “My Lord and My God”
Thomas’ confession is one of the strongest statements of faith in the Gospels: “My Lord and my God.”
His doubt becomes the doorway to worship.

Reflection:

  • Why is the word “my” so important in Thomas’ confession?

  • What is the difference between believing things about Jesus and encountering Jesus personally?

  • Where do you need Jesus to become “my Lord and my God” in a fresh way?

05: Blessed Are Those Who Have Not Seen
Jesus says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
That blessing reaches all the way to us.

Reflection:

  • What makes belief difficult in our time?

  • How does communion help us “touch” the wounds of Jesus in a different way?

  • What would it look like this week to bring your doubt, disappointment, or fear honestly to Jesus?

Practice for the Week
Take five minutes each day this week to pray this simple prayer:

Jesus, meet me where I am.
Not where I pretend to be.
Meet me in my doubt, my disappointment, and my desire to believe.
Lead me closer.

Closing Prayer
Jesus,
like Thomas, we often carry disappointment beneath our doubt.
Thank you that you do not shame us or push us away.
You come close.
You show us your wounds.
You invite us to bring our wounds to yours.
Give us courage to believe, hope, and trust again.
Be to us not just Lord and God, but my Lord and my God.
Amen.

Eugene Polupan