Definition and Context:
Great Reasoning refers to the profound and logical discourse often found in the Bible, where individuals engage in deep thought and articulate arguments to convey divine truths, moral principles, or theological insights. This concept is evident in various biblical narratives and teachings, where reasoning is used to reveal God's wisdom and to guide believers in understanding His will.

Biblical Examples:

1. Paul at the Areopagus (Acts 17:16-34):
The Apostle Paul exemplifies great reasoning during his address at the Areopagus in Athens. Observing the city's idolatry, Paul engages with the philosophers and uses logical arguments to introduce them to the "unknown God" they worship in ignorance. He reasons from their own cultural context, quoting their poets and using their altars as a starting point to proclaim the Gospel. This passage highlights the use of reason to bridge cultural gaps and communicate the truth of Christ effectively.

Acts 17:22-23 : "Paul stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: 'Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and examined your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore what you worship as something unknown, I now proclaim to you.'"

2. Jesus and the Pharisees (Matthew 22:15-46):
Jesus often engaged in great reasoning with the Pharisees and Sadducees, who sought to trap Him with challenging questions. In Matthew 22, Jesus skillfully answers questions about paying taxes to Caesar, the resurrection, and the greatest commandment. His responses demonstrate profound wisdom and understanding of the Scriptures, leaving His challengers unable to refute His arguments.

Matthew 22:21 : "So they brought Him a denarius, and He asked them, 'Whose image is this? And whose inscription?' 'Caesar’s,' they answered. So Jesus told them, 'Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'"

3. Solomon's Wisdom (1 Kings 3:16-28):
King Solomon's judgment in the case of the two women claiming to be the mother of a child is a classic example of great reasoning. Solomon's request to divide the living child in two reveals the true mother, who would rather give up her claim than see her child harmed. This account illustrates the application of divine wisdom and reasoning in governance and justice.

1 Kings 3:28 : "When all Israel heard of the judgment the king had rendered, they stood in awe of Solomon, because they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice."

Theological Significance:

Great reasoning in the Bible underscores the importance of wisdom and understanding in the life of a believer. It reflects the nature of God as a God of order and logic, who invites His followers to love Him with all their mind (Matthew 22:37). The use of reason is not opposed to faith; rather, it complements it by providing a means to articulate and defend the truths of the Gospel.

Practical Application:

Believers are encouraged to engage in great reasoning by studying the Scriptures diligently, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and being prepared to give an answer for the hope that is within them (1 Peter 3:15). This involves not only understanding biblical doctrines but also being able to communicate them effectively in a world that often challenges Christian beliefs.