I once had a teacher that told us that there were no such thing as dumb questions. I am not sure if I believe that or not. I have watched a few press events especially sports related ones. But I would argue that it is a travesty for a Christian or a seeker to have a question that they never ask particularly about the Bible, theology, or even about the church. Questions are a great way to learn and explore. Curiosity is a gift to all of us from God.
The Christian life is not simply about having the right answers. I believe that it is also about asking the right questions. I did a sermon series a while back where I focused on questions that people asked Jesus that are recorded in the four Gospels. The answers that Jesus gave were often convicting but they were always helpful and instructive. What we and those who asked Jesus these questions have in common is that usually our questions lead us toward a better understanding of the truth.
In our church, we place a high value on sound, biblical theology. Why? Because theology is simply the technical term for our knowing who God is and what God requires of us. I try to regularly give people opportunity to ask questions. Before you think it, I make no claim to having all the answers. Sometimes the best answer to someone’s question is for me to simply state that I do not know. I have many questions of my own. We strive to be a place where people can wrestle through complex biblical questions and seek answers from Scripture.
This means that we all need to practice asking questions. In order to grow in our faith, it is best to ask questions that really matter. By the way, asking questions or even having questions is not a sign of doubt. It is actually a sign of a person who is maturing spiritually and that is expressed as curiosity. Maybe my teacher was correct about there not being any dumb questions. Maybe he didn’t watch many press events after a football game.
Good questions help us in many ways. They clarify in our minds what Scripture teaches. They help us avoid wrong assumptions. And they aid us in wrestling with the character of God and even the mystery of His grace. Getting our questions answered often results in a greater love for Christ and a firmer confidence in the Gospel.
Let me end with some suggestions on how to answer a question. First, ask honest questions where you are seeking to know. “Gotcha questions” are never helpful. Most pastors, including me, do not need much help in looking dumb. Second, start your question by saying, “What does the Bible teach about…” Or you could say, “How does this doctrine affect the way that we live?” When given the opportunity, ask your question so that others can hear it and the answer. We are Christians. We grow and mature better in community together. The saddest question is the one that never gets asked.
Joe Tolin, Kingman Presbyterian Church
