Inquiry, the act of seeking information or understanding, holds a significant place within the biblical narrative and Christian theology. The Bible encourages believers to engage in inquiry as a means of deepening their faith, understanding God's will, and discerning truth. This entry explores the role of inquiry in Scripture, highlighting its importance and application in the life of a believer.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents inquiry as a noble pursuit, urging believers 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 underscores the value of earnest inquiry in gaining spiritual insight and knowledge of God.

Jesus and Inquiry

Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, often engaged in inquiry, both asking and answering questions to reveal deeper truths. In Matthew 16:13-15 , Jesus inquires of His disciples, "Who do people say the Son of Man is?" and follows with, "But what about you? Who do you say I am?" This method of inquiry not only prompted reflection but also led to Peter's profound confession of faith.

Moreover, Jesus encouraged His followers to seek and ask questions as a means of spiritual growth. In Matthew 7:7-8 , He instructs, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." This passage highlights the promise of divine response to sincere inquiry.

The Apostolic Example

The early church also exemplified the role of inquiry in the pursuit of truth. The Bereans, mentioned in Acts 17:11 , are commended for their diligent examination of the Scriptures: "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." Their example serves as a model for believers to verify teachings through scriptural inquiry.

Inquiry and Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, emphasizes the pursuit of wisdom through inquiry. Proverbs 4:7 advises, "Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it costs all you have, get understanding." This pursuit is portrayed as a lifelong endeavor, requiring humility and a willingness to learn.

Inquiry in Prayer and Meditation

Inquiry is also integral to prayer and meditation, where believers seek God's guidance and understanding. James 1:5 encourages believers, "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 promise assures believers that God welcomes their inquiries and is willing to provide wisdom.

Discernment and Testing

The New Testament further instructs believers to test and discern teachings and spirits. In 1 John 4:1 , it is written, "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 discernment underscores the necessity of inquiry in safeguarding the faith against false teachings.

Conclusion

The role of inquiry in the Bible is multifaceted, serving as a means of gaining wisdom, understanding God's will, and discerning truth. Through inquiry, believers are encouraged to engage with Scripture, seek divine guidance, and grow in their faith. The biblical model of inquiry is one of active engagement, reflection, and a sincere desire to know God more deeply.