Maybe you have had been wrestling with the problem of doubt during the isolation of this coronavirus lockdown. Maybe you have asked where are you Jesus? Or questioned whether or not there is a heaven or hell. Or maybe you have even been tempted to question whether Jesus is the Son of God or not?

If you have struggled with doubt, then this passage this morning will help you. Luke wants his readers to wrestle with the question of Jesus’ true identity and with the response of faith His identity demands.

In our passage today, Jesus tells John’s disciples to go and tell John what they had seen and heard. Jesus was saying, “Look at My life and ministry.” He worked miracles by the power of God to authenticate who He was. So when you struggle with doubt, go back to the basic question, Who is Jesus Christ? Read the Old Testament prophecies. Read the Gospels. 

Whenever you’re going through a time of difficult trials, when it seems that God is ignoring your prayers, be on guard. It was in the context of enduring fiery trials that Peter wrote, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” Then he added, “Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.  (10)  And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” - 1 Peter 5:8-10   

Your trials do not mean that God does not exist or that He has lost control as the Sovereign of the universe. Hang on by faith, knowing that He will use your trial to strengthen and establish you. As Peter instructs just a few verses before (5:6-7), “Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God … casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.” Don’t doubt God’s sovereignty or His love when you go through extended trials.

Discussion Questions

1. What has caused you the most trouble with doubts? Is the source usually intellectual or moral?
2. Why does God refuse to give evidence to scoffers? Is it true that by believing a person will gain knowledge? Why?
3. When witnessing, to what extent should we attempt to resolve a person’s questions stemming from doubt?
4. Is faith opposed to being a thinking person? Why/why not?