John 20:28 captures a pivotal moment in Christian scripture, encapsulating the journey from doubt to profound faith. This verse records the apostle Thomas’s powerful declaration to the resurrected Jesus: “My Lord and my God!” This statement is not just a personal exclamation but a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming the divinity of Jesus Christ. Understanding the context and implications of John 20:28 is crucial for grasping the core beliefs of Christianity.
Thomas, known as Didymus, is often labeled “Doubting Thomas” due to his initial skepticism regarding Jesus’ resurrection. When the other disciples told him they had seen the Lord, Thomas asserted, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my fingers where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). This doubt, however, was not met with condemnation but with understanding and grace by Jesus.
[Imagine an image here depicting Thomas touching Jesus’ wounds. For example: “]
In John 20:28, Jesus reappears to the disciples, Thomas included, and directly addresses Thomas’s doubt. He invites Thomas to touch his wounds, saying, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” It is in response to this direct encounter and invitation that Thomas makes his momentous declaration: “My Lord and my God!”
The significance of “My Lord and my God!” is multifaceted. Firstly, it is a direct acknowledgment of Jesus as “Lord” (Kyrios in Greek). In a Jewish context, Kyrios could denote respect and authority, but in this instance, coupled with “God” (Theos in Greek), it transcends mere earthly authority. Thomas is not just recognizing Jesus as a master or teacher but as divine. This aligns with the prologue of John’s Gospel, which states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Thomas’s confession resonates with this foundational statement, affirming Jesus’ divine nature.
Furthermore, this declaration is intensely personal. The use of “My Lord and My God” emphasizes a personal relationship and faith. It’s not a detached theological statement but a heartfelt confession from Thomas to Jesus. This personal aspect is vital in Christian faith, highlighting that belief is not just intellectual assent but a personal encounter and relationship with the divine Christ.
From a theological perspective, John 20:28 is crucial for understanding the Deity of Christ. Thomas’s words are among the clearest affirmations of Jesus’ divinity in the New Testament. This verse is often cited in theological discussions and debates concerning the nature of Jesus. It reinforces the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, where Jesus is understood as fully God, co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Moreover, the narrative surrounding John 20:28 offers several important teaching points:
- Overcoming Doubt: Thomas’s journey from doubt to belief is encouraging. It shows that doubt is not the opposite of faith, but can be a pathway to deeper conviction when met with truth and revelation.
- Importance of Personal Faith: Thomas’s confession is personal and transformative, highlighting the necessity for each individual to come to their own understanding and acceptance of Jesus Christ.
- The Role of Witness: The disciples, including Thomas, serve as witnesses to the resurrected Christ. Their testimony is foundational to the Christian faith, providing evidence and assurance.
- Worship and Acknowledgment: Recognizing Jesus as both Lord and God naturally leads to worship and submission to His authority in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, John 20:28 is more than just a verse; it’s a powerful statement of faith and a declaration of core Christian belief. Thomas’s exclamation, “My Lord and my God!” is a climactic moment in the Gospel of John, underscoring the divinity of Jesus Christ and inviting every reader to a similar confession of faith and personal worship. This verse remains a central point of reflection and affirmation for Christians worldwide, encapsulating the transformative power of encountering the resurrected Lord.
