By Alyssa Parker (Operations Manager at Brethren Community Ministries (bcmPEACE) (PA))
By Matthew 28:16-20 “…but some doubted…”
Jesus had just risen from the dead. A miracle unmatched. The disciples were continuing to obey the wishes of Jesus even though He was no longer there with them physically. The scripture reads that Jesus appeared to them once they had reached Galilee, just as he said He would, and they worshiped at His feet – even though some doubted. It’s important to note that there were in fact disciples that had harder time believing, but they were given the same experience as those that had no doubt. They were still given the same command as the others and Jesus showed Himself to them the same.
Sometimes, we feel that if we have questions, or doubt, it means God loves us or cares for us less. He knows that we may have imes of doubt. But they continued to worship Him even in the midst of doubt. They did not give up and leave protesting falseness, they stayed and praised Him. We have to remind ourselves that God loves us through our storms and our doubts. We have the same command now as the disciples did then – to go and make disciples of ALL the nations, even those who may have moments of doubt.
Good News: Jesus is ALIVE and with us ALWAYS, even in our doubts and storms, as he calls us to GO and make disciples of ALL nations.
Discussion Question: Has there been a time where you doubted? Do you still have doubt? What do you do to challenge that doubt and get out of your storms? Have you been told that doubting means you don’t really believe? Is this true? Can your faith actually be strengthened through times of doubt?
Go one step further: Take time to record your storms and moments of doubt. This can be through journaling, music, painting, whatever way is best for you. Everytime you record something, share a testimony of God working in your life with someone. You can challenge that doubt and fear into spreading the good news and remembering the larger picture – God!
A great mini sermon on doubt