by Nicholas Bownd
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Nicholas Bownd’s The Unbelief of St. Thomas the Apostle: Laid Open for the Comfort of All that Desire to Believe is a rich theological work that explores the account of Thomas' doubt and ultimate confession from John 20. This classic treatise is both deeply exegetical and pastoral, focusing on how the story of Thomas can bring comfort to struggling believers wrestling with doubts about Christ and His resurrection. Bownd masterfully unfolds the tension between human frailty and divine grace, showing how even the most sincere disciples can struggle with unbelief yet be graciously restored.
Bownd begins with a careful exposition of Thomas’ refusal to believe the testimony of the other apostles until he personally saw the risen Christ. He explores the layers of unbelief present in Thomas' heart while emphasizing the mercy of Jesus, who meets him in his weakness and calls him back to faith. Bownd also reflects on how Christ’s patience with Thomas reveals the heart of the Gospel—a Savior who does not abandon His own, even when their faith wavers.
The book goes beyond mere biblical commentary, offering deep pastoral wisdom. Bownd provides counsel for those who wrestle with doubts, showing that faith often grows stronger through seasons of spiritual struggle. His reflections encourage the believer not to despair but to look to Christ, the true object and author of faith. The work also challenges readers to trust the reliability of God's Word, even when they cannot see with their physical eyes the truths it proclaims.
About the Author:
Nicholas Bownd (1551–1613) was a Puritan theologian and minister known for his deep commitment to biblical teaching and practical godliness. He served as a faithful pastor in England during a time of great theological debate and ecclesiastical reform. Bownd is best known for his work The True Doctrine of the Sabbath, which argued for the moral and perpetual nature of the Lord’s Day observance. His writings continue to encourage thoughtful biblical reflection and faithful Christian living, emphasizing both doctrinal clarity and personal devotion to Christ.