Peace Be With You

Passage

John 20:19-31

Sermon Summary

These two post-resurrection appearances remind us that Jesus never expects anyone to have "blind" faith. In fact, he wanted Thomas, and all of his disciples, to give eyewitness, earwitnes n hand-witness to his resurrection. And while we cannot "prove" it today, we can defend it as a rational explanation of his disciples' radical transformation from frightened, disillusioned nobodies to people who turned the world upside down. When Jesus says, "Blessed are you who have not seen and yet have believed," he assumes that our faith will be based on living evidence of his Holy Spirit working through us and through other people he has sent.

Discussion Questions

1. [Optional starter question] What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. Did you have any preconceived ideas about Thomas? How did the sermon challenge or revise your opinion of him?
3. The preacher claimed that the Christian faith stands or falls on whether the resurrection actually happened. Do you believe that? Explain why.
4. Do you think it would be easier to trust Jesus if you had more evidence? What specific evidence would you want? 
5. Describe some of the people, events or circumstances that have helped you to believe. If possible, share a story about one.
6. How do you know that the Holy Spirit has been "breathed" into you? What are some marks or evidences of his activity?
7. In what specific ways do you think Jesus is sending you into the world to bring peace (shalom or flourishing)? Consider your relationships, your work or studies, and your community.
8. Jesus showed Thomas his scars. What is one of your scars—and how does it bear witness to the ongoing work of Jesus?

Resources Consulted:

• Africa Bible Commentary, ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo
• True to Our Native Land, ed. Bryan K. Blount
• The New Testament in Color, ed. Esau McCauley
• John for Everyone, NT Wright
• Pillar New Testament Commentary on John, DA Carson
• Surprised by Hope, NT Wright
• Perspectives on Pentecost, Richard Gaffin

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