THE TRANSFORMATION OF THOMAS John 20:19-29 Most of us are like Thomas, because we want to know!! Thomas might have been a fisherman since he went fishing with Peter in John 21. The name Thomas is Aramaic for “Twin” or “Didymus” the “twin” in Greek. In Mark, Matthew and Luke, Thomas is mentioned three times - with the other disciples. In Acts 1:3 Thomas is with other disciples on the day of Pentecost. Thomas, possessed some admirable qualities: He was loyal to the Lord. He loved Jesus. He possessed an inquiring spirit. He was a pessimist, too! He was a “glass half-empty” kind of person, always on the lookout for the “dark side” of things. The Lord brought a transformation in his life! THOMAS THE POUTER - When Jesus died, Thomas was broken-hearted and felt that their dream had reached an end. He missed the Presence, Power, Peace, Praises, Promotions and the Provisions of the Lord. We miss a lot when we fail to come to church. • Church attendance is a command from the Lord, Heb. 10:25-26. • God has something special when we meet here, Matt. 18:20. • You need the church for it offers - strength and growth in the Lord. THOMAS THE DOUBTER - said, “I will not believe!” because his last memory of Jesus is of a dead man hanging on a cross. Thomas needs the proof! We identify with Thomas. It is hard sometimes to believe what we cannot see, especially when we are disappointed or disillusioned with life. THOMAS THE SHOUTER – When Thomas joined them, Jesus again appeared and invited Thomas to touch Him and satisfy his need to know. After this, Thomas called Jesus both “Lord and God.” Thomas got it all! After Pentecost, History, tells us that Thomas traveled east, preaching the Gospel through Persia, and ended up in India – where have churches today that trace their history back to the time of Thomas. Thomas was killed with a spear. He died for the Lord at last. `
Open your heart to Jesus - Jesus will fill your life with peace, joy, praise, and blessing. He will take you just like you are and transform you. Believe without seeing. Take your pouts, doubts and turn them into shouts for Him. The Rev. Dr. George Okusi – Vicar. 4/23/2017 sermon at 8am and 10:15am