"Curious Conversations"

EPISODE 122

Ask Probing Questions Like Jesus

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If Jesus had a favorite tool in his disciple-training toolbox, it was asking probing questions. With just a few simple words, he challenged people's thinking, making them work through their biases and beliefs. He always knew the answer, but his audience rarely did.

After his triumphal resurrection from the dead — before anyone realized what had happened — Jesus had a curious conversation with two confused travelers on the way out of Jerusalem.

"What Things?"

"Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?" And he said to them, "What things?"..." (Luke 24:18-19).

Imagine talking to Jesus, but not realizing it was him! These two men had no idea they were speaking with the Savior. So they answered his question by explaining all the events that had happened (Luke 24:19-24), as if Christ didn't know.

Often the best place to start in sharing the good news of Christ is addressing the "What?" question. Don't assume they've already heard about Christ. Keep it simple and stick to the facts. Explain who Jesus was, what happened to him, and how it makes you feel.

"Wasn't it Necessary?"

"... And he said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?"" (Luke 24:25-26).

But the two men — filled with doubt — didn't fully understand what had taken place. So, pointing them back to the words of the Prophets for guidance, "... he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself" (Luke 24:27).

Sharing the facts about Jesus may not be enough. Expect follow-up "Why?" questions. The message of Christ's victory through death seems like nonsense to the world (1 Cor. 1:21-25). So be patient and be prepared to give the reasons for your hope, with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).

"Why Are You Troubled?"

Once the men realized who they'd spoken to, they rushed back to Jerusalem to share their story with the other disciples. And as they were talking, Jesus appears with more questions for them.

"... Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. ..." (Luke 24:37-39).

Don't forget to ask the "What now?" question when sharing Christ with the world. The evidence and reasoning demand a decision — to accept him or remain doubtful. While we plant and water the seed (1 Cor. 3:6-7), ultimately, the choice to commit their lives to the Lord is theirs.

So, let's do our part to lead humanity out of fear into faith, using the powerful and probing questions Jesus asked two strangers after his resurrection.