John 20:29
Jesus said to him, 'Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe' — Jesus gently rebukes Thomas's requirement for sight, then pronounces beatitude on future believers who will believe through witness (the apostolic word) rather than resurrection appearance. This verse addresses the post-Easter church, whose faith rests on apostolic testimony and the Spirit's witness rather than direct encounter. The blessed condition of faith-without-sight becomes the standard for all subsequent generations.