Cross-questioning, or the act of questioning someone closely, often to challenge or test their knowledge, understanding, or truthfulness, is a theme that appears in various contexts throughout the Bible. This practice can be seen in both Old and New Testament narratives, where individuals are questioned by others, often to reveal deeper truths or to expose falsehoods.

Old Testament Instances

1. Job's Friends and God: The Book of Job provides a profound example of cross-questioning. Job's friends question him extensively, attempting to uncover the reason for his suffering. They challenge his integrity and understanding of God's justice. Job, in turn, questions God about his suffering. God's response to Job is a series of questions that highlight divine wisdom and power. Job 38:3 states, "Now brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall inform Me."

2. Prophets and Kings: Prophets often engaged in cross-questioning with kings and leaders. For instance, Nathan the prophet questions King David, leading to David's repentance over his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-14). This questioning serves to convict and bring about moral and spiritual reflection.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus and the Pharisees: Jesus frequently faced cross-questioning from the Pharisees and other religious leaders. These interactions were often attempts to trap Him in His words or to challenge His authority. In Matthew 22:15-22, the Pharisees question Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar, to which He responds with wisdom, saying, "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s" (Matthew 22:21).

2. Jesus and His Disciples: Jesus also used cross-questioning as a teaching tool with His disciples. In Matthew 16:13-15, He asks them, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" and follows with, "But what about you? Who do you say I am?" This questioning leads to Peter's confession of Jesus as the Messiah.

3. Paul and the Authorities: The Apostle Paul often found himself in situations of cross-questioning, particularly during his trials. In Acts 24-26, Paul is questioned by Roman authorities and Jewish leaders. His responses are marked by clarity and a defense of his faith and mission.

Purpose and Outcomes

Cross-questioning in the Bible serves multiple purposes. It can be a means of revealing truth, as seen in the interactions between Jesus and His challengers. It can also be a method of teaching, prompting deeper reflection and understanding, as demonstrated in Jesus' dialogues with His disciples. Additionally, it can expose the intentions and hearts of those involved, as seen in the questioning of Job and the responses of his friends.

The practice of cross-questioning, therefore, is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual one, often leading to revelation, repentance, and growth in faith.Proverbs 20:5
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
Nave's Topical Index

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