New Testament
John 20:24
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Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
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But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
What John 20:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Thomas, one of Jesus' twelve disciples, who is also known by the name Didymus. The context reveals that he was not present when Jesus appeared to the other disciples after His resurrection. This absence is significant because it sets the stage for Thomas's later doubts about Jesus' resurrection. The fact that he was not there when Jesus first appeared to the others highlights his initial separation from the group and the experiences they shared. This moment emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship among believers, as Thomas missed a pivotal moment in the early church. His later encounter with the risen Christ, where he expresses doubt and ultimately faith, serves as a powerful reminder of the journey from skepticism to belief. This verse invites readers to reflect on their own faith journeys and the moments when they may feel disconnected from their community or from God.
How to apply John 20:24 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of being present in our faith communities. Just as Thomas missed a significant moment by not being with the other disciples, we too can miss out on spiritual growth and support when we isolate ourselves. Engaging with others can strengthen our faith.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Thomas Believes (John 20:24–29)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was Thomas in the Bible?
Thomas, also known as Didymus, was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. He is often remembered for his skepticism regarding Jesus' resurrection, famously doubting until he saw Jesus' wounds. His story highlights the struggle between doubt and faith, making him a relatable figure for many believers.
What does John 20:24 teach us about community?
John 20:24 emphasizes the importance of being present in a faith community. Thomas's absence when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples signifies how isolation can lead to missed opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. This verse encourages believers to engage with their communities to strengthen their faith.
Why was Thomas not with the other disciples?
The Bible does not specify why Thomas was absent when Jesus appeared to the other disciples. His absence sets the stage for his later doubts about the resurrection, illustrating how being apart from the community can lead to feelings of uncertainty and isolation in one's faith journey.
What is the significance of Thomas's doubt?
Thomas's doubt serves as a powerful reminder that questioning and skepticism are part of the faith journey. His eventual declaration of faith upon seeing the risen Christ illustrates that doubt can lead to a deeper understanding and stronger belief, encouraging others to embrace their struggles with faith.
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