The Benefit of the Doubt: Week 1: Bend Don’t Break
• Ryan Riddell • Series: The Benefit of the Doubt
The Benefit of Doubt — Study Guide 1. When Faith Feels Fragile Scripture: Mark 9:24 — “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Discussion: Have you ever prayed hard but didn’t get the answer you hoped for? Why do Christians sometimes feel ashamed to admit doubts? 2. Doubt in the Bible Scripture: Abraham & Sarah (Gen. 18:12) Gideon (Judg. 6:36–40) Thomas (John 20:24–25) Discussion: Which biblical example of doubt do you relate to most? What do these stories teach us about God’s patience with our questions? 3. Worship and Doubt Together Scripture: Matthew 28:16–17 — “They worshiped Him; but some doubted.” Discussion: Why is it important that Matthew included “but some doubted”? How does Jesus respond in verses 18–20? 4. Thomas’ Journey Scripture: John 20:27–28 — Jesus: “Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas: “My Lord and my God!” Discussion: How does Jesus meet Thomas in his doubt? What do we learn about faith from Thomas’ transformation? 5. The Pathway of Doubt Scripture: Psalm 23:4 — “Even though I walk through the valley…You are with me.” Discussion: How can doubt become a step toward deeper faith instead of a dead end? How can we walk with others through their doubts without pushing them away? Takeaway Truths Doubt isn’t the enemy of faith. Jesus meets us in our doubts. Doubt can lead to deeper, stronger faith.