Thomas the Apostle—One of Jesus’ original 12 disciples. Thomas is famous for doubting the resurrection and for being the first missionary to India.
The Names of Thomas The Apostle
The Apostle is known by several names. In the Gospels, he is called “Thomas” (Greek: Θωμᾶς) and “Didymus” (Greek: Δίδυμος), which means “Twin” (John 11:16).
In Church History, he is also called “Doubting Thomas” and “Judas Thomas” (Cyrien church tradition).
The Gospel
In the synoptic Gospels, Thomas only appears in the Apostolic lists (Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:14-19, Luke 6:13-16). Aside from his name, no other information about his life is recorded in these texts. However, he is quoted several times in the Gospel of John, who records his commitment to Jesus (John 11:16), doubts about the resurrection (John 20:25), and great confession (John 20:26-29).
“Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”
John 20:28
Thomas in Church History
The doubting disciple appears many times in the church’s literary tradition. Eusebius and other church fathers reference him in theological discussions and talk about his work with the Gentiles.
Thomas The Apostle in Non-Christian Sources
Several second-century gnostic texts and fictional stories about his life are also attributed to him. (It should be noted that these accounts are all considered heretical or legends.)
Thomas’ Mission to India
According to church tradition, Thomas was the first missionary to India. Syrian Christian tradition says that he was speared to death on St. Thomas Mount, in Chennai, on 3 July in AD 72.
Articles About Thomas The Apostle
- The Life And Death of Thomas The Apostle? – An analysis of Thomas’ life and death in the Gospels and Church History.