The concept of "The Private Inquiry" is not explicitly named in the Bible, but it can be understood as the personal and intimate seeking of God's will, wisdom, and understanding through prayer, meditation, and study of the Scriptures. This practice is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition and is essential for personal spiritual growth and discernment.

Biblical Basis

The Bible encourages believers to seek God privately and earnestly. In Matthew 6:6, Jesus instructs, "But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." This verse highlights the importance of private communion with God, away from the distractions and accolades of public life.

The Psalms frequently reflect the heart of one who engages in private inquiry. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This verse underscores the role of Scripture in guiding personal inquiry and decision-making. The psalmist's dedication to meditating on God's word day and night (Psalm 1:2) exemplifies the practice of seeking divine wisdom privately.

Historical and Theological Context

Throughout church history, private inquiry has been a cornerstone of Christian devotion. The Desert Fathers and Mothers of the early church exemplified this through their withdrawal into solitude to seek God more deeply. The Reformation further emphasized the importance of personal Bible study, with figures like Martin Luther advocating for the priesthood of all believers, which includes the responsibility and privilege of personal inquiry into God's word.

Theologically, private inquiry is rooted in the belief that God desires a personal relationship with each believer. This relationship is cultivated through individual engagement with Scripture and prayer. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, as Jesus promised in John 16:13, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth."

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, private inquiry involves setting aside dedicated time for prayer and Bible study. It requires a heart posture of humility and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance. James 1:5 encourages believers, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."

Private inquiry also involves discernment, as believers seek to understand and apply biblical truths to their lives. This process is not done in isolation from the broader Christian community but is complemented by fellowship and accountability with other believers.

Challenges and Considerations

While private inquiry is vital, it must be balanced with communal worship and study. The danger of misinterpretation or developing unorthodox beliefs can arise when individuals rely solely on their understanding without the input of the broader church tradition and community.

Moreover, the practice of private inquiry requires discipline and intentionality. In a world filled with distractions, setting aside time for focused prayer and study can be challenging but is essential for spiritual maturity.

In summary, while "The Private Inquiry" is not a term found in Scripture, the practice it describes is deeply biblical and vital for a vibrant Christian faith. Through private inquiry, believers grow in their knowledge of God, deepen their relationship with Him, and are equipped to live out their faith in the world.