don't persist in unbelief
"Do not persist in your unbelief, but believe!" —John 20:27
Many people have been unbelievers at some time or another. It's not unusual not to believe. Consequently, Jesus did not indicate any disappointment with Thomas for his lack of faith. Likewise, Jesus is not upset with any of us for our lack of faith.
Jesus is, however, very concerned about our persisting in unbelief. If you, like Thomas, don't believe in the Resurrection, fine. To stay that way, however, is a sin because Jesus is going to great lengths to make a believer out of you. He may tell you to "take your finger and examine" His hands or "put your hand" into His side (Jn 20:27). He may open the door to faith (see Acts 14:27) in another way. In some way, Jesus is giving you the gift of faith, and He expects you to accept it.
Jesus expects us to say with Thomas: "My Lord and my God!" (Jn 20:28) We have no excuse for not eventually having faith in Jesus (see Rm 1:20). We can at least pray: Lord, "increase our faith" (Lk 17:5) or "I do believe! Help my lack of trust!" (Mk 9:24) Doubt must give way to faith.
Prayer: Father, give me "great faith" (see Mt 15:28).
Promise: "You form a building which rises on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the Capstone." —Eph 2:20
Praise: St. Thomas' cry of faith has echoed through the years and ministered to countless people. Praise You, risen Jesus, "my Lord and my God!"
Reference: (Increase your faith every day by reading the Bible every day. We have several tape series to help you. Overview of the Bible is six audio tapes starting with AV 10A-1 or three video tapes starting with V-10A. 15-minute Bible Teaching - New Testament is forty audio tapes starting with #700. An Introduction to each book of the Bible is thirty-two audio tapes starting with AV 21-1 or seventeen video tapes starting with V-21.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 18, 2013
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