It’s stupid to follow dead people. If Jesus is dead, don’t follow him! If Jesus is still in the grave, he’s not worthy of your worship! One part of the Bible says that Christians are to be pitied above anyone else if Jesus didn’t rise physically from the dead.
Jesus isn’t dead. He’s more alive than ever. He is the Risen Ruler of the Universe! When Jesus first appeared to his homies, for some reason, Thomas wasn’t there (John 20:24). And so when the disciples said to Thomas that they’d seen Jesus alive again, Thomas didn’t believe them (John 20:25). Thomas wanted evidence.
What type of evidence did he want? He wanted to see Jesus, he wanted to touch Jesus. For Thomas – he needed to see Jesus to believe that he had been raised from the dead.
Jesus kindly gave Thomas what he wanted (John 20:26). He appeared to Thomas in the flesh – Thomas had the opportunity to put his finger in the place where the nails were driven and his hand into Jesus’ side.
Jesus says to Thomas to stop doubting and believe (John 20:27). So Thomas did. He responded with the words “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Jesus then says that it’s good that Thomas has seen and believed, but also says that there will be people who won’t have to physically see Jesus raised from the dead and yet still believe (John 20:29). They will believe based on the testimony of those who did Jesus in the flesh (John 20:30-31).
Have you responded to Jesus with the words “My Lord and my God”? Here’s what it will mean. You will:
- recognise that Jesus is who he claims to be
- not just treat Jesus as your Saviour
- not try to be your own ruler, but…
- treat Jesus as your Lord (your master – your boss – your ruler – your king)
- not try to be your own god, but…
- treat Jesus as your God (your creator – your maker – your purpose-giver)
Jesus is the King who RULES! Does he rule in your life?
