Asking Questions

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Scripture: Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:2 ESV

Consider: The wise men had very little fear. They ask questions because they are learners and not afraid of looking dumb. We have a saying at North Valley: the leaders are the learners. Learners ask questions. Matthew tells us that the wise men came to ask King Herod where the King of the Jews was. Herod could have responded, “He is right here. I’m the King of the Jews.” King Herod had indeed been put into power by Caesar Augustus as a client king in Judea to maintain Roman peace. But everyone around Herod knew that he was dangerous, like a crazy man with a gun. He had way too much power and way too many insecurities. When these Magi asked Herod such a bold question, didn’t they know his reputation, or didn’t they care? Having come to Herod’s palace in Jerusalem, they had to know Herod was the King of Judea. Herod would have considered any other claimant to the throne a threat to him and a threat to Romel.

Because of the magi’s question, we can plainly see that, though the Magi aced astrology class, they skipped Jewish theology. The men had wisdom enough to know when to ask for help but not enough to study the scriptures. What is to be noted about these men is their boldness to ask questions. Too many times we fail to ask questions. The answers could be within reach.

Remember that Joseph too asked questions (Matthew 1:18-25). He didn't understand how in the world Mary was pregnant, so he asked the Angel questions concerning his fiancée’s pregnancy!

Remember that Mary asked questions of the angel Gabriel about how she was supposed to give birth to Jesus since she was a virgin (Luke 1:34). In each of these instances, we find a patient and loving God, more than glad to answer them.

Remember that doubting Thomas—who spent more than three years with Jesus as He preached incredible sermons and performed incredible miracles, heard him predict His own death, burial and resurrection—saw Jesus after that first Easter Sunday and asked, “Can you prove you are really Jesus? Can you show me your scars? If it’s you, show me!” The Lord responded, “Yes, I can prove it” (John 20:24-29). God doesn’t cower from questions; he answers. He has no one to impress and nothing to prove. He is simply God.

Apply: Do you have a question for God? Or maybe one for a pastor? Feel free to ask. God isn’t opposed to asking questions. In fact, it’s a key part of the learning process for most of the prominent men and women of the faith.

Pray: Lord, help me be bold enough to ask a question when I don’t know the answers. I have nothing to prove and no one to impress. Christ in me is enough. I depend on you. Help me always to be a learner. In Jesus’ name, Amen.