Thielicke’s portrayal of “Doubting Thomas.” In a certain sense he was faithful, but there is a crippling hopelessness about him. He also absented himself completely from the gatherings of the disciples. (It is interesting that the disciples put up with him and did not disfellowship him.) Jesus is not angry with Thomas about his questioning. Instead, Jesus lets him know he understands. That is the last thing we can hold to when doubt comes over us: Jesus knows about us, but he does not doubt us in return. Jesus’ showing himself to Thomas – the icebreaker – was a touching concession to an undeserving skeptic.