The apostle Thomas has a bad reputation in the church because of his statements in John 20. Therefore, many think of him as the “doubting” disciple. But the Gospel of John shows on different occasions that this man had a deep devotion and love for Christ.
One example of this devotion may be found in the famous passage of John 11 on the resurrection of Lazarus. As Jesus was explaining to the disciples of Lazarus’ death and its purpose, he shared of their the need to go to back to that area of Judea. The disciples were hesitant and tried to remind Jesus of the Jews who sought to kill him. Though the physical risks were high, Jesus knew that this entire event was necessary for the glory of God to be on display.
Thomas, not really grasping the entirety the situation, still shows a type of courage and dedication to follow the Lord despite any potential threats or difficulties.
“Therefore Thomas, who is called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, so that we may die with Him” (John 11:16).
Thomas’ words are a tremendous illustration of what it means to be a disciple of Christ. Such dedication to being a follower embraces even the social stigma and physical dangers that comes with it. D.A. Carson says, “Yet there is another sense in which Thomas, like others in this Gospel, spoke better than he knew: his words have become a clarion call to would-be disciples, after the resurrection, to take up their cross daily and follow Jesus (cf. Mk. 8:32; 2 Cor 4:10)”[1]
Saints, let us adopt this heart from Thomas. All our efforts in Gospel ministry are well worth the temporal pain. Come, let us go die with Jesus.
[1] Carson, The Gospel According to John, Pillar New Testament Commentary.
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