Introduction

Questioning and faith are integral aspects of the Christian journey, often seen as complementary rather than contradictory. The Bible presents numerous instances where questioning leads to a deeper understanding and strengthening of faith. This entry explores the biblical perspective on questioning within the context of faith, highlighting key scriptural examples and teachings.

Biblical Examples of Questioning

1. Abraham and Sarah: In Genesis 18:12-14, Sarah questions the promise of bearing a child in her old age, laughing at the prospect. The Lord responds, "Is anything too difficult for the LORD?" . This interaction underscores that questioning can lead to a reaffirmation of God's power and promises.

2. Moses: When called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses questions his own ability and worthiness, saying, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11). God's response reassures Moses of His presence and support, illustrating that questioning can be a step toward divine assurance and empowerment.

3. Gideon: In Judges 6:13, Gideon questions the presence of God amidst Israel's suffering, asking, "If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us?" . God's response and subsequent actions demonstrate that questioning can lead to a deeper understanding of God's plans and purposes.

4. Job: The Book of Job is a profound exploration of questioning in the face of suffering. Job's dialogues with his friends and his direct questioning of God highlight the human struggle to understand divine justice. God's eventual response from the whirlwind (Job 38-41) emphasizes His sovereignty and wisdom, inviting trust even amidst unanswered questions.

5. Mary, the Mother of Jesus: In Luke 1:34, Mary questions the angel Gabriel about the announcement of Jesus' birth, asking, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" . The angel's explanation and Mary's subsequent acceptance illustrate that questioning can coexist with faith and lead to a willing submission to God's will.

Teachings on Questioning and Faith

1. Seeking Understanding: Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages believers to seek wisdom and understanding, suggesting that questioning is a part of the pursuit of knowledge: "If you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding... then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God" .

2. Faith and Doubt: In the New Testament, the account of Thomas, often called "Doubting Thomas," in John 20:24-29, illustrates that questioning and doubt can lead to a stronger faith. Jesus' invitation to Thomas to touch His wounds is a testament to His patience and willingness to meet us in our doubts.

3. Testing the Spirits: 1 John 4:1 advises believers to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God" . This implies that questioning is necessary for discernment and safeguarding one's faith against false teachings.

4. The Role of the Holy Spirit: John 16:13 promises that the Holy Spirit will guide believers into all truth. This assurance provides confidence that questioning, when done with a sincere heart, will be met with divine guidance.

5. Faith as Assurance: Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see" . This suggests that faith involves trust beyond what is immediately understood, yet it does not preclude the process of questioning.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative affirms that questioning is a natural and valuable part of the faith journey. Through questioning, believers can deepen their understanding, strengthen their trust in God, and grow in spiritual maturity. The examples and teachings from Scripture encourage a balance between seeking answers and maintaining faith in God's ultimate wisdom and sovereignty.