THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF DOUBT

God has plans for all who doubt. His patient grace and powerful truths give us new confidence. And who better to tell people about the certainty of God’s promises than those who have struggled to believe?

Notes And Next Steps

John 20:24-29 + Part 5 of the series “Victorious!"

Four types of doubt:
- The most severe and damaging doubt is unbelief.
- Often the predecessor for unbelief is drifting.
- A conscious struggle in a believer’s heart and mind about what is true, right or best.
- A hesitation on the part of a believer to completely, unconditionally trust in God.

“Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25)

In times of doubt, don’t:
- detach yourself from those who can help
- demand exceptional evidence

In times of doubt, do:
- desire Jesus himself to dismiss your doubt
- demonstrate your faith

A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” (John 20:26,27)

 

DISCUSS

  1. The Bible says, “Be merciful to those who doubt” (Jude 22). Some have said, “Mercy answers doubt as much as truth.” Do you agree?
  2. What work or words of God do you tend to doubt most often? Which of the do’s or don’ts today can help when it happens again?
  3. Make a list of at least 5 others people in the Bible who doubted. What can we learn from them?