I turn to Christ

Thomas the Twin was not the only one

In the sermon “I Turn to Christ,” Dennis explores the story of Thomas, emphasizing the importance of faith and doubt among the disciples. Thomas’s encounter with the risen Jesus leads to a powerful declaration of belief in him as Lord and God. The sermon highlights the significance of names in baptism and the role of questioning in deepening faith. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the power of faith in Jesus, even amidst doubts, as a path to salvation.

The sermon titled “I Turn to Christ” by Dennis uses the rich story of the disciple, Thomas, to demonstrate the importance of faith, the power of names, and the pivotal role of Christianity’s sacrament of baptism. Thomas, often misunderstood as the doubting disciple, is a testament to the complexity of belief, disbelief, and unbelief. Dennis emphasises Thomas’s critical role in Christianity when he recognised and declared Jesus the risen Lord, stating, “My Lord and my God!” Thomas’s naming of Jesus is presented to highlight the significance and power of naming.

Further in the sermon, the story of Thomas, alternatively known as Didymus or the Twin, continues serving as the backbone of the discourse. His association with Jude or Judas in Mark’s gospel strengthens the naming theme, suggesting a possible physical resemblance to Jesus and leading to the label “the Twin.” The sermon uses this narrative to delve deeper into the power of names, using examples from legal and religious practices, including baptism.

In baptism, individuals are named and dedicated to the Lord and God, echoing Thomas’s declaration of faith in Jesus.
Moreover, the sermon introduces the writings of Cyril, a fifth-century patriarch of Alexandria, to deconstruct the stigma attached to doubt. Cyril highlights that true faith involves accepting what one hasn’t seen but believing through trusted witnesses’ testimony.

The sermon advocates for questioning, asserting that it aids in refining understanding and faith in Christ, just as it did for Thomas. It also stresses the foundational question of baptism, “Do you turn to Christ?” stating the commitment towards Christ’s path begins from this point.

Lastly, Dennis explores his relationship with his Christian identity, acknowledging the array of ways individuals perceive him, and concludes with the reaffirmation of the belief in Jesus Christ as the Saviour and Messiah.

The sermon successfully illustrates through Thomas’s journey that turning to Christ, dedicating our Christian names to the Lord, and staying open to doubts can enrich our faith and lead us towards salvation.