“Because
you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed.”
John 20:29
John 20 [26.] After eight days again his disciples were inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors being locked, and stood in the middle, and said, “Peace be to you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Reach here your finger, and see my hands. Reach here your hand, and put it into my side. Don’t be unbelieving, but believing.”
John 20 [28.] Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!”
John 20 [29.] Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed.”
John 20 [30.] Therefore Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written, that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.
Meaning:
This verse occurs in the context of the disciples' encounter with the risen Jesus. Thomas, one of the disciples, had expressed doubt about Jesus' resurrection, stating that he would not believe unless he saw and touched the wounds of Jesus. In response, Jesus appears to Thomas and invites him to touch the wounds. Thomas, upon seeing and touching Jesus, exclaims, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28).
Jesus then utters the words in John 20:29, acknowledging Thomas's belief resulting from seeing Him physically. However, He also extends a blessing to those who would come to faith without the benefit of such direct, tangible evidence.
Significance:
- Faith Beyond Sight:
The central theme of John 20:29 revolves around the nature of faith. Jesus acknowledges Thomas's belief prompted by seeing Him in the flesh but emphasizes the greater blessing of those who believe without such physical confirmation. This highlights the profound nature of faith that transcends sensory experiences.
- Blessing for Believers:
The pronouncement of blessing on those who believe without seeing underscores the value and significance of faith in the Christian journey. It places a special emphasis on the faith that arises from the testimony of others, the witness of Scripture, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
- Encouragement for Future Generations:
Jesus' words in John 20:29 serve as an encouragement for future generations of believers who would not have the privilege of witnessing His physical presence. This includes all who, throughout history and into the present, have embraced faith in Christ based on the testimony of the Scriptures and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Cross References:
Hebrews 11:1: The concept of faith beyond sight is echoed in, "Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen." This verse provides a broader biblical perspective on the nature of faith as extending beyond the visible.
2 Corinthians 5:7: The emphasis on walking by faith rather than by sight is also expressed in, "For we walk by faith, not by sight." This aligns with the idea that faith is not contingent on direct visual confirmation.
In Conclusion: John 20:29 encapsulates a timeless message about the nature of faith and the unique blessing bestowed upon those who believe without the need for physical proof. It resonates through the ages, encouraging us to embrace the profound beauty of faith that transcends the limitations of human sight. As we ponder these words, we are invited to recognize the blessedness of a faith that finds its foundation in the unseen yet deeply felt reality of the risen Christ.
See also: vs 30-31
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible