How can we apply Jesus' example of questioning to seek truth in our lives? Setting the Scene in John 18:34 “Jesus answered, ‘Are you saying this on your own, or did others tell you about Me?’” • In the early hours of His trial, Jesus does not launch into self-defense; He turns the tables with a question. • The question exposes Pilate’s motives—does Pilate have personal conviction or is he parroting public opinion? • Jesus models that truthful dialogue begins by uncovering the source of a statement. Why Jesus Asks Instead of Accuses • Invitation, not intimidation—questions invite a person to examine the heart (Proverbs 20:5). • Clarification before correction—by seeking clarity first, Jesus upholds the Ninth Commandment against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). • Respect for human agency—Jesus lets Pilate wrestle personally with the truth, echoing Deuteronomy 30:19’s call to “choose life.” Principles for Our Own Truth-Seeking Questions 1. Start with motive: – “Are my questions aimed at truth or at winning an argument?” (James 3:17). 2. Distinguish sources: – “Did others tell me, or have I searched Scripture myself?” (Acts 17:11). 3. Bring Scripture to bear: – Like Jesus in Matthew 22:29, use God’s Word to correct misunderstandings, not personal opinion. 4. Allow silence and reflection: – Jesus often let questions linger (Mark 11:30–33); space helps truth surface. Practical Ways to Practice Intentional Questioning • In Bible reading: – Pause after each paragraph and ask, “What does God actually say here?” • In conversations: – Replace quick rebuttals with, “Can you share why you hold that view?” • In decision-making: – Write down sources influencing you—God’s Word, godly counsel, or social pressure? • In self-examination: – Apply Psalm 139:23, inviting God to “search me,” then journal honest answers. Guardrails to Keep Our Questions Anchored in Truth • Submit every conclusion to Scripture’s final authority (2 Timothy 3:16). • Pray for the Spirit’s illumination (John 16:13) before, during, and after questioning. • Use questions to build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29). • Stay humble—truth is received, not invented (John 3:27). The Ultimate Question: Who Is Jesus to Me? Jesus’ question to Pilate ultimately forces a personal verdict on His identity (John 18:37). Following His example, keep returning to: • “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15). • Each answer shapes everything else—beliefs, ethics, relationships, eternity (John 14:6). By echoing Jesus’ purposeful, heart-searching questions, we cultivate discernment, guard against error, and walk in the liberating truth He promised (John 8:32). |
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