MPV Commentary

24, 25. Thomas was not with the other disciples when Jesus appeared to them again - we don't know why he wasn't there, but it's likely due to his own doubts and fears.

They told him they had seen the Lord, using a phrase that would become common among believers after Jesus' resurrection (Joh 20:20; Joh 21:7). Thomas was unconvinced, however. He needed more than just their word - he wanted to see the wounds in Jesus' hands and side for himself before he could believe.

26-29. Eight days later, the disciples were gathered again, this time with Thomas present. Jesus appeared among them, saying "Peace be unto you." Then he turned to Thomas and said, "Reach out your finger and look at my hands; reach out your hand and put it into my side. Don't be faithless any longer but believing."

Thomas was overcome by the experience and exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" This declaration surpasses anything that had been said before, and it's a testament to Thomas' newfound understanding of Jesus' true nature.

Jesus responded with words both commendatory and rebuking: "Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." These words acknowledge Thomas' faith, but also imply that his faith was only possible because he had seen the evidence for himself.

Joh 20:30, 31. The Gospel concludes with a statement about its purpose: "Many other signs Jesus performed in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded here. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing have life in his name."