Faith: Believing Having Never Seen

INTRODUCTION: After Christ’s resurrection, He appeared numerous times to both individuals and small groups (1 Corinthians 15:4-8). On one occasion, He appeared to over 500 brethren at once (1 Corinthians 15:6). Yet, the Bible only records four instances of His appearing to His chosen apostles. Thomas was missing at Christ’s first appearance (John 20:24). During Christ’s third appearance to the apostles, only seven of them were present (John 21:2). Though Jesus was leaving the Holy Ghost with His disciples (John 20:22), He would not be returning during their lifetime. He would use this time as His last opportunity to teach them the lessons they needed most. We too have much to learn from these same lessons.

I.THE APPEARANCE OF CHRIST TO HIS DISCIPLES (John 20:19-31)

A. When Thomas Was Absent (John 20:19-23)

1. The appearance of Jesus (John 20:19-20)
   a. The fear of the disciples (John 20:19)

1. On the first day of the week
2. Meeting behind closed doors
3. Assembled in secret for fear of the Jews (contrast Acts 4:31)
   Acts 4:31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
   b. The comfort of the Saviour (John 20:19)
   1)He was not hindered by the closed doors.
   2)He gave them a message of peace (John 14:27; John 16:33).
   c.The joy of the disciples (John 20:20; John 16:22)
   1)He showed them His hands and side.
   a)He was not a spirit (Luke 24:39); He had flesh and bones, though no mention was made of blood.
   b)He proved His resurrection in a powerful way (1 John 1:1-3).
   2)The disciples were glad (John 16:19-22; Matthew 28:8; ....