Jesus’ teachings were often clothed as questions. His hearers—at least those who would listen—became self-taught, as they examined themselves under the searchlight of those questions.
Most of the questions he asked are as pertinent and penetrating today as they were when he first asked them; thus the title of this piece is “Questions Jesus Asks” (present tense), not “Questions Jesus Asked” (past tense).
If we only view the Bible as history—a collection of events that happened hundreds of years ago—we become spectator readers. One way to avoid this and feel a first-century sizzle is to confront the questions Jesus asked and answer them for yourself, letting them meet you where you are at this point in your life.
Of the many questions Jesus asked I’ve chosen thirty for your reflection. I am quoting them without citing the scripture reference so you will take them personally. The questions are his; the answers are yours.
- Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
- Doesn’t life consist of more than food and clothing?
- Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?
- If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else?
- Why are you harboring evil thoughts?
- Is your heart hardened?
- What do you want me to do for you?
- Do you really believe that I can do this?
- Why did you doubt me?
- Don’t you remember?
- If even the smallest things are beyond your control, why are you anxious about the rest?
- Who do you say that I am?
- What profit is there if you gain the whole world—and lose eternal life?
- What could you ever trade your soul for?
- If you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
- If I have told you about things that happen on earth and you don’t believe, how will you believe if I tell you about things of heaven?
- Do you not yet understand?
- Why are you thinking such things?
- Why are you so frightened?
- Why are you upset?
- Why do doubts invade your mind?
- Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?
- Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me?
- Why do you call me “Lord, Lord,” and don’t do what I tell you?
- Where is your faith?
- How is it that you seek praise from one another and not seek the praise that comes from God?
- Do you realize what I have done for you?
- Have I not chosen you?
- Would you really die for me?
- Do you love me?