John 20:28 And Thomas answered and said to him, My LORD and my God. These words imply — I. JOYFUL RECOGNITION. Partings are painful; but the bereavement of the ten was over. And now the restored fellowship of Christ brought Thomas peace. So every new revelation of Christ brings joy to His disciples now. But recognitions are not always joyful (1 Kings 21:20; Matthew 8:29; Mark 1:24; Revelation 1:5; Revelation 6:15, 16). How different the meeting of loved ones (Acts 12:14-16; Acts 28:15; Genesis 45:26; Genesis 46:30). So Thomas and all disciples rejoice in Christ who, though He was dead, is alive again, and crowned with glory and honour. II. DIVINE HOMAGE. Friends rise in our estimation as we know them better. Love tested by trial. Suffering and death reveal the soul. Perhaps we never see so clearly the greatness of our friend as when he is taken from us. So it seems to have been with the disciples. It was only after the Resurrection that they beheld the fulness of His glory. What a testimony to the Divine greatness of Jesus in this confession How horrified was Paul (Acts 14:15, 16); Peter (Acts 10:25); the angel (Revelation 22:9) at the thought of being worshipped; but Jesus receives it as His right. III. APPROPRIATING FAITH, "My," a little word, but of deep significance. Faith is a personal thing. Mark the difference between Thomas's faith and — 1. The faith of devils (James 2:19; 1 John 5:10-12). 2. The faith of mere believers in historical Christianity. It is one thing to say, "The Lord He is God," and another to say, "My Lord and my God." Luther says that the marrow of the gospel is in the possessive pronouns. IV. SELF-SURRENDERING LOVE. Paul says, "Yield yourselves to God." This is the difficulty; but never till it is done are we truly converted. But once done it is done for ever. The sight of Jesus wins the heart. Conclusion: Happy are those who can say, "My Lord and my God." Here is — 1. The true bond of union (1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 10:1). 2. The noblest inspiration of life (2 Corinthians 5:14). 3. Strength for work. 4. Comfort in trouble. 5. Hope in death (2 Corinthians 4:6-8). (W. Forsyth, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. |
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