Q & A

While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?” Matthew 22:41-42 NIV

While a  college student at Samford, we had the president of the Southern Baptist Convention come and speak at chapel. He was a great speaker and loved to engage with the students after the service. Being naively arrogant, I only asked him one question, “Do you really love God?” With a genuine and gracious smile he replied, “I love Jesus Christ with all of my heart.” How brash of me to ask that question. Yet, I remember his answer to this day.

John Maxwell has written a book called Good Leaders Ask Great Questions. His premise is that asking good questions of those you serve and those you follow keeps you in a continual state of learning.

Normally, the Pharisees were asking Jesus the questions, now it is Jesus turn. “What do you think of the Messiah?” How would you answer that question? We are accustomed to thinking that people believe as we do. A teacher teaches a subject matter and then ask questions about the material. All heard the same lesson, but have different interpretations of what was just taught.

As a parent it is very helpful to ask your child, “What did you hear me just say or ask of you?” His answer will be very revealing. It will also help you understand why they may choose to disobey or not follow your instructions. Even though you thought you were clear, they did not “get” what you were saying the first time. JUST because you SAID IT to them, doesn’t mean they GET IT.

Jesus gave us a good segue way question to turn conversations into a spiritual direction. It is very easy to ask without being overtly intrusive. “What do you think of Jesus?” Don’t drop your mouth open when they give you an answer that is honestly different. It is your starting point to explore why they think the way they do.

How about you? What questions do you use to turn the conversation in a spiritual direction? You really are awesome.

Blessings Love y’all