Bible Text: John 20:24-31 | Preacher: Rev. Dr. Lou Saldiveri | Series: Doubt, Faith, Own Your Faith | “Have You Ever Doubted?” John 20:24-31
Intro: In my experience, there are at least two types of doubters. One type just likes to doubt things to be argumentative without an open and teachable mind. The other type of doubter is a person who has legitimate concerns and questions, but is open to discussion and proof. Thomas, the doubter, is the second type of doubter.

Unfortunately, some bad teaching and preaching in some churches don’t give any room to people who have legitimate concerns or doubts. When we have an explicit or implicit agenda that promotes this type of church culture, we don’t give people a chance to learn, grow, and embrace their own genuine faith.

It is not unusual for Christ followers to go through periods of doubt. I believe that could be a healthy process if we handle the person with the love  and wisdom of God.

In this passage, John gives us some great insights into this issue of legitimate doubt.
When we experience doubt:

1. Don’t Try to Handle Doubt Alone
1. Common mistakes:
1. Withdraw for the fellowship
2. Relying on our own wisdom and understanding
3. Ignoring loving, godly people
2. Keep an Open Mind and Heart to Jesus
1. Illus: “Doubt is the hammer that breaks the window clouded with human fancies and lets in the pure light.” George MacDonald
2. Ask honest questions and make honest statements
3. Jesus will break through with His truth and light
1. Grace: Jesus gives Thomas the opportunity for a personal touch.
1. Have we ever experienced those moments when Jesus gives us a personal touch? Those moments are incredibly precious.
3. When You Work Through Your Doubt, Be Obedient
1. Worship
1. The Deity and Lordship of Christ
1. With a humble heart
2. With an obedient heart, mind, and will
3. Stop Doubting
2. Go forward by faith

Closing: So, how are we doing today? First, do we give liberty to people who have legitimate doubt? Do we give liberty to ourselves when we have legitimate doubts? Are we honest about our doubts to God and ourselves? Are we willing to approach our doubt with an open mind and heart to Jesus? When Jesus, through the Word and Holy Spirit, breaks through the doubt, are we willing to worship Him and go forward in obedience by faith?