“But Some Doubted”

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16-20).

Yesterday during Sunday School Mike Ferris called our attention to the phrase “but some doubted.” These 11 men would be the leaders of the early Christian church, but some of them doubted, at least on that day in Galilee. 

What should we take from this? First, it means that the disciples were truly human. Second, Jesus didn’t condemn them for their doubts. He didn’t stop and say, “Hey, what’s wrong with you guys? Can’t you get your act together?" 

Until yesterday I had never seen the connection between their doubt and what happens next. Even though some doubted, Jesus sends them out anyway. 

Go and preach.
Go and make disciples.
Go and baptize.
Go and spread the Good News.
Go and I will go with you.

I find this a hopeful word for the day after Easter. Whatever doubts and worries and problems we had on Saturday are still with us today. 

Don’t let your doubts stop you.

Go and in the very act of going, your faith will be made stronger.
The very act of telling the Good News helps your own heart to believe it.