Jimmy Knott's Word of the Year - Doubt

12/28/2008
Jimmy Knott
"Doubt"

John 20:19-31

Anytime circumstances don't go the way we want them to we doubt.

Thomas in the bible is known for his doubting. He openly dealt with doubt and gave us the greatest confession which really gives us hope.

2 Truths

1. Doubt is Human and Normal
Animal and plants don't ask why only humans. Think of all the bible people that experienced doubt: Sarah, David, Gideon, Jeremiah, John the Baptist. Even more modern religious leaders experienced doubt: Billy Graham, Martin Luther, Mother Theresa.

There are 3 Kinds of people in the church:
1. People experiencing doubt right now
2. People not experiencing doubt but will in the future
3. People not experiencing doubt and may be brain dead!
We don't need to be afraid of doubt. Let God use our doubt to allow us to be stronger in our faith.

2. Doubt is different than Unbelief
Doubt = asks honest questions and deepens opportunity for growing faith
Unbelief = refusal to hear answers or take the first step to learn more

Lessons to help manage doubt:
1. Doubt co-exists with Faith John 11:5-16, John 14:3-5

2. Doubt grows in isolation - the best way to confront doubt is in the presence of other believers. Being along and having doubt can lead to cynicism and fear. We are afraid to confront doubt because we fear doubt will win. There is nothing wrong with wanting more evidence.

3. Doubt doesn't cause God to abandon us - Jesus didn't scold Thomas, He didn't question his doubt he just provided answers. Jesus never condemned anyone for wanting to be sure.

4. Doubt can deepen our Faith
How: 1) Doubt creates faith 2) Doubt keeps faith humble 3) Doubt keeps faith growing

Acknowledge and address your doubt. Doubt is a way for God to make our faith stronger.