INTRODUCTION

Jesus Appears to His Disciples

Bible Point:

Believe in Jesus.

Key Verse:

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

Big Picture:

Consider your faith in Jesus and ask Him to help you grow in faith this week.

Jesus Appears to His Disciples

John 20:19-31

Sometimes it’s hard to believe something until we see it for ourselves. Thomas felt that way, too, and many of us do as well. This week, you’ll learn that Jesus understands our questions and meets us with patience and kindness. Following Jesus isn’t about having perfect faith. It’s about growing trust a little more each day and knowing that Jesus is alive and loves you so much.

PLANTING THE SEED

Jesus’ disciples were scared. Jesus’ body wasn’t in the tomb, which meant that Jesus was alive! This made the Jewish leaders very angry! Jesus’ body was missing, and they didn’t believe he had been resurrected (even though Jesus told them he would be!). The disciples were being blamed for taking Jesus’ body.

Suddenly Jesus came and stood in the room the disciples were gathered in and said, “Peace be with you!” Talk about relief! The disciples knew they were right and Jesus was alive! However, Thomas wasn’t with the disciples when all this happened and he didn’t believe their story. Thomas said he wouldn’t believe Jesus was alive until he saw it for himself. He had to see the marks in Jesus’ hands where the nails had been and put his finger in Jesus’ side.

Well, you know what? Jesus let him do just that. He let Thomas see His hands and touch His side. Jesus told Thomas, “Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Then, Thomas believed.

BIBLE POINT

Believe in Jesus.

KEY VERSE

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

WOULD YOU BELIEVE?

As a family, share some of the crazy stories about things that have happened to you—stories that other people might not believe if you told them. Then talk about how sometimes things happen that can’t be explained, or “shouldn’t” happen, but have.

• How do these stories affect our willingness to believe in God?

• How does that make us trust God when we can’t see the outcome right away?

READY, SET, GROW!

It’s important that we continually encourage our faith. Choose a way you’ll grow in your faith this week:

• Write a letter to Jesus, telling Him any doubts you have about Him.

• We show our belief in our actions. Find someone who needs help this week, and then lend a hand!

• Share about your faith with non-Christian friends. For extra impact, invite them to church next week!