When Faith Meets a Fork in the Road

Key Points

1. Faith's Struggle with Skepticism

   • Thomas' doubt reveals the frailty of human faith. (John 20:24-29)

   • Despite witnessing Jesus' teachings and resurrection promises, Thomas demanded physical proof.

   • Life experiences can make us skeptical, but we must not allow this to affect our trust in God's Word.

     
     

2. Skepticism vs. Faith in God's Word

   • Skepticism is understandable, but we must not dismiss what aligns with Scripture. (John 20:25)

   • Don’t discount others’ experiences if they are rooted in the Word of God.

     
     

3. Steps of Faith and Growth

   • Abraham’s righteousness was imputed before circumcision, showing that early steps of faith are valuable.

   • Growth in faith requires us to recognize those earlier steps and keep pursuing truth. (Acts 19:1-6)

     
     

4. Cooperation Despite Differences

   • Not all who differ in beliefs are false prophets.

   • Jesus said, "Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us." (Luke 9:49-50)

   • Partnering in good works like feeding the hungry, praying for the sick, and worship is possible despite differences.

     
     

5. The Fork in the Road

   • While cooperation is important, certain doctrinal distinctions require a clear separation.

   • Biblically example of distinction (Acts 19:1-6)

   • Foundational truths, such as being "born of water and Spirit" (John 3:5, Mark 16:15-17) and the importance of baptism in Jesus' name (Acts 2:38), require steadfast adherence.

     
     

6. Responsibility in Knowledge

   • Knowing truth places greater responsibility on us. (Luke 12:40, 47-48)

   • "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required." (Luke 12:48)

     
     

7. Encouragement to Grow

   • Faith should incline forward, not decline backward.

   • Thomas' journey shows that doubt can evolve into deep faith, as seen in his declaration: "My Lord and my God." (John 20:28)

   • Thomas believed when he saw Jesus; yet Jesus said, "Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have believed." (John 20:29). People will come to faith in different ways. Stand firm in truth, but do not fear cooperation in areas of common faith and compassion and help others to see the light of God’s word.