Daily Devotional | Asking the Right Questions

Did you ever sit in class and become nervous when a teacher asked you a question you didn’t know how to answer? Teachers know there is an art and science to asking purposeful questions. Closed questions require a “yes” or “no” answer or a factual reply. Open questions require more content in the explanation. Asking closed questions is only the starting place for helping a student think more deeply.

As we learn from the Great Teacher, we should understand the art of asking purposeful questions. Good questions help us get to know a person and can open the door to faith conversations. God set an example with the first question He asked Adam in Genesis 3:9: “Where are you?” God gave Adam a closed question. He knew exactly where Adam was...both his literal location in the Garden and his figurative location—where Adam was in relationship to Him. So why did God ask the question? To reveal truth. Often God asks questions to get people to examine their motives and actions.

In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His disciples a closed question, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” He then immediately followed this question by asking Peter an open question, “But what about you? . . . Who do you say I am?” Christ’s question was aimed at Peter’s heart by asking for his personal declaration of faith. Peter gives not just one answer but two (v. 16), clarifying his answer to Jesus with more explanation. Jesus’ question to His disciples was intended to engage them in a spiritual conversation, to help them understand His identity. Because we desire to serve others, we must be prayerfully willing to ask loving but sometimes tough questions.

>> As you read Matthew 16, ask yourself, what is God’s intention with each question? Consider the conversations you might have today. How might God use you as His servant leader to ask important and needed questions that will lead others to know and follow Jesus Christ?

Pray with Us

Imagine yourself in Peter’s sandals, facing Jesus’ question in today’s reading: “Who do you say I am?” As you pray, tell the Lord who He is in your life and thank Him for your salvation.

BY Mary Martin, Former Professor of Christian School Education

Dr. Mary Martin previously served at Moody as program head of Christian School Education and chair of the Education and Counseling division. She has also served as a classroom teacher, principal, and head of school. Mary is the author of Impacting Student Learning through Christ-Centered Instructional Leadership and currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, Michael. She speaks at numerous education conferences each year and loves mentoring Moody graduates.