They Were Afraid To Ask

Jesus was, among other things, the best teacher to ever walk the earth. His teachings apply to real life and they are deep, but not always the simplest to understand. Often times His disciples asked Him to clarify His teachings for them (Lk. 8:9; Jn. 14:5). In one instance, however, we see a problem that still exists even today: They were afraid to ask the questions that plagued their minds. Look at Luke 9:44-45:

““Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this statement, and it was concealed from them so that they would not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this statement.” (NASB95, Emphasis mine)

How many times have you sat silently in a Bible class, too afraid to ask the questions rolling around in your brain? Perhaps you think that you are the only one with questions, or that your questions are not important enough to ask. When you feel this way, remember:

• Bible Classes are for You:
  Your understanding of God’s Word is the point of the class. Bible classes are first and foremost designed for YOU, the student, listener, and studier. Bible classes are intended to teach YOU the Bible. Questions are a natural part of learning. Whether the question is simple or complex, it is what you need answered to learn the Word of God effectively. Ask your questions, because your understanding of God’s Word is the point of the class!
• Questions Help Your Teacher:
  As a teacher, it helps me know what my class needs when they ask questions. Does my class know who Abraham is? Do they understand why the Law of Moses doesn’t change the practices of the church today? Do they understand what John means when he says, “whoever believes in Him shall…have eternal life”? If a hand is raised in class and a question is asked, it helps me teach exactly what needs to be learned. Questions help your teacher. 
• Questions Encourage Your Brethren:
  Often times the questions you have are questions someone else also has. When you ask your questions, you may be helping someone else without even knowing it. Even if they don’t have the same question, they may be more courageous to ask a question on their mind because of you. Asking questions is an excellent way to encourage your brethren. 

Sometimes we get this picture in our minds of the church as people who already know everything. There is no greater lie than that. The church is full of people who all have questions, and a congregation who asks questions is a congregation who grows in Christ. Let’s ask questions, study God’s Word together to answer them, and be filled with the fruit of righteousness as we find and apply the answers to our lives.

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." -Philippians 1:9–11 (NASB95)