From Doubt to Deeper Faith S236
"Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" This cry from a desperate father in the Gospels resonates with many of us. What if doubt isn't the enemy of faith, but a pathway to deeper conviction? Ever felt your faith waver? You're in good company. Even the disciples who walked with Jesus had moments of uncertainty.
In this week's Church Unscripted, Pastors John, Eric, and David dive into the complexities of doubt and faith, inspired by the account of Peter's rebuke in Matthew 16. Their conversation reveals how wrestling with tough questions can lead us closer to Jesus.
DOUBT AS A BRIDGE
Pastor Eric shares a profound insight: "Doubt, if you handle it the right way, can be a catalyst for deeper faith." This perspective challenges us to view our questions not as threats, but as opportunities for growth. When we bring our doubts to Jesus, we open ourselves to His transformative work in our lives.
The disciples' journey with Jesus was filled with moments of confusion and uncertainty. Yet, these very struggles deepened their understanding and commitment to Him. Similarly, our doubts can drive us to seek Jesus more earnestly, leading to a more robust and genuine faith.
EMBRACING THE MYSTERY
Christianity isn't about having all the answers. It's about trusting Jesus even when we don't understand everything. Pastor David reminds us of the disciple's prayer, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief." This honest approach acknowledges both our faith and our struggles, inviting Jesus into our doubts.
The resurrection, central to our faith, remains a mystery in many ways. Yet, as Pastor Eric points out, "There's something about the crucifixion and the resurrection, as hard as it is to explain, that is so much easier to embrace because it fits the hole in our soul that it was designed to fill."
CHALLENGING QUESTIONS
When facing doubts or encountering challenging theories about Jesus, the pastors offer valuable guidance:
- Start with Jesus: Whether you begin at the cross or elsewhere in Jesus' life, honestly engaging with His teachings and actions will ultimately lead you to the truth of who He is.
- Evaluate arguments, not just personalities: Don't let the failures of individuals discredit the truth of the gospel. Focus on the message itself.
- Seek community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can support you in your questions and point you back to Jesus.
DOUBT TO CONVICTION
As we wrestle with our doubts, we often emerge with a stronger, more personal faith. Pastor John sums it up well: "Doubt is actually the bridge to deeper faith." By bringing our questions to Jesus and His community, we allow Him to work in our hearts, transforming uncertainty into unshakable conviction.
Jesus-Centered Homes, Gospel-Saturated Communities
At Brookside, we believe that wrestling with doubts in a supportive community is key to building Jesus-centered homes. As we navigate our questions together, we grow in our understanding of the gospel and its power to transform our lives and communities.
Remember, Jesus isn't intimidated by your doubts. He invites you to bring them to Him, promising that those who seek will find (Matthew 7:7). So let's face our uncertainties, trusting that as we do, we'll discover a deeper, richer relationship with Jesus.