The time for transition had come. Jesus’ earthly presence would give way to His ascension back to His Father in heaven. Those remaining, eleven disciples (minus Judas) gathered with Jesus on a designated mountain (Matthew 28:16). A final message would be shared by the Master.
Matthew inserts a phrase as a prelude to Jesus’ closing monologue. Amidst the worship by those disciples was this “reality check” — “some doubted” (vs.17).
What a radical thought. After all these disciples had seen and heard. After all the time and attention Jesus’ had showered on these select men, how could it be that “some doubted?”
Before we critique these less-than-perfect disciples too quickly, we do well to contemplate these thoughts. Perhaps they will add context to the dramatic phrase.
Jesus accepted and taught human beings. In the faith-maturing process exists room for the alternative…for “doubt.” Jesus still had plans for these fragile men.
There was still room for their faith to grow. Even with residual “doubt” they could “make [more] disciples” (vs.19a) — like them as fully human ...
