The concept of "The Call to Inquiry" in the Bible emphasizes the importance of seeking understanding, wisdom, and truth through diligent study and reflection on God's Word. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, encouraging believers to engage their minds and hearts in the pursuit of divine knowledge.

Biblical Foundation

The call to inquiry is rooted in the biblical mandate to seek wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 2:3-5 states, "if you indeed call out for insight and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God." This passage highlights the active pursuit of wisdom as a valuable endeavor, likening it to the search for precious metals.

In the New Testament, the Bereans are commended for their noble character in Acts 17:11 : "Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true." The Bereans exemplify the call to inquiry by diligently verifying the teachings they received against the Scriptures, demonstrating a commitment to truth.

The Role of the Mind

The call to inquiry involves the engagement of the mind in understanding God's revelation. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of loving God with all one's mind in Matthew 22:37 : "Jesus declared, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'" This command underscores the necessity of intellectual engagement in the life of faith.

The Apostle Paul also encourages believers to be transformed by the renewal of their minds in Romans 12:2 : "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." The renewal of the mind is essential for discerning God's will and living a life that is pleasing to Him.

Discernment and Testing

The call to inquiry involves discernment and the testing of spirits and teachings. In 1 John 4:1 , believers are instructed, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." This call to test and discern is crucial in a world where false teachings can lead believers astray.

Paul further advises in 1 Thessalonians 5:21 , "but test all things. Hold fast to what is good." This exhortation encourages believers to critically evaluate all teachings and practices, retaining only that which aligns with the truth of Scripture.

Wisdom and Understanding

The pursuit of wisdom and understanding is a recurring theme in the call to inquiry. James 1:5 offers a promise to those who seek wisdom: "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This assurance encourages believers to seek divine wisdom through prayer and study.

The book of Proverbs repeatedly emphasizes the value of wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 4:7 : "Wisdom is supreme; therefore acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding." The acquisition of wisdom is portrayed as a paramount goal for those who desire to live in accordance with God's will.

Conclusion

The call to inquiry is an essential aspect of the Christian faith, urging believers to actively seek wisdom, engage their minds, and discern truth through the study of Scripture. This pursuit is not only a personal endeavor but also a communal one, as believers are called to encourage one another in the quest for understanding and truth.