Curious Christian: Is it okay to ask questions about faith

In school, your teachers often encourage you to ask questions about the lessons. They know that questions help you learn and understand better. 

However, have you ever wondered if the same principle applies to your faith? In some places, asking questions can be seen as a challenge to authority. 

Now, think about your church. Is it a place where you feel comfortable asking questions about your faith, even the tough ones?

As a curious Christian, you might have pondered questions like, "Is God truly good?" or "Is my faith worth it?" 

Perhaps you have wondered why God sometimes feels distant, even though there was once a sense of closeness. 

In moments of suffering, you might have questioned whether there is any purpose behind it all or if it's just senseless pain. 

These are not uncommon questions, but they can feel daunting to ask, especially when others might mock you for not knowing or for daring to question your faith.

In this article, we will tackle these concerns head-on. We are here to explore whether it is not just okay but essential for Christians to ask faith questions.

Asking faith questions in the Bible

Many individuals abandon the church due to feeling constrained, believing that questioning is discouraged. 

Yet, as you delve into the Scriptures, you will uncover compelling evidence that faith questions are not just tolerated but encouraged. 

It is a stark contrast to the idea that inquiry has no place within the faith.

Habakkuk 

Habakkuk questioned why God seemed silent when he cried for help in a world filled with violence and chaos. He grappled with the challenge of reconciling a good God with the pain caused by sin. 

Through his questions, God guided him toward greater faith.

John the Baptist

John the Baptist, initially confident about Jesus as the Messiah, later questioned this certainty while in jail. He sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he truly was the Chosen One. 

His doubt revealed the human struggle even among faithful followers.

Thomas

Thomas, known as Doubting Thomas, wrestled with the truth of Jesus' resurrection. His doubts were shared by other disciples when they heard about Jesus being alive. 

His human struggle with faith reminds us of our doubts.

Moses 

Moses, despite being called by God, questioned his ability to deliver his people from Egypt. He asked, "What if they don't believe me?" and expressed difficulties with public speaking. 

God allowed his brother Aaron to assist, showing that even great leaders can wrestle with faith.

Abraham

Abraham, known as the father of faith, wrestled with his belief despite being made righteous by his faith. 

It took seven times of God's promise before Abraham was fully convinced. His journey teaches us that wrestling with faith doesn't hinder us from receiving from God.

Why ask faith questions

As you have seen, the Bible showcases that asking faith questions is encouraged. 

Based on the experiences of the biblical characters, here are the reasons why.

Questions promote understanding

When you ask faith questions, you dig deeper into the teachings and truths of your faith. This seeking of understanding leads to a clearer comprehension of God's plans and purposes in your life.

Questions clear up misconceptions

Asking questions helps to dispel any misunderstandings or false beliefs you might have. 

It allows you to discern the truth and align your faith with the reality of God's love and guidance.

Questions allow you to admit your doubts and fears

It is perfectly normal to have doubts and fears in your faith journey. 

Questions provide a healthy outlet to acknowledge and address these concerns. Ultimately, this leads to a more authentic and resilient faith.

Questions strengthen your faith 

By asking questions, you show your trust in God's ability to provide answers and guidance. 

Such an act of seeking reaffirms your faith and strengthens your relationship with the Lord as you rely on Him for understanding and wisdom.

Motivation behind the question

When considering faith questions, pay attention to your motivations. 

Mary and Zechariah both posed questions to the angel of the Lord in Luke 1:5-38. But their inquiries had varying effects. 

One question was met with favor from the angel, while the other appeared to displease him. The difference likely lay in the motivation behind these questions. 

Even if we sometimes asked inappropriately, the reassuring truth is that if we confess our misplaced anger or intentions to God, He stands ready and willing to extend His forgiveness (1 John 1:9).

Another example would be the children of Israel in the wilderness.

Although they, like David and Job, used similar words in their complaints, the motivations behind their inquiries differed significantly. 

Their questions were akin to accusations, challenging God's character and goodness. 

Moreover, they engaged in collective complaints about God among themselves. This contrast underscores the importance of the heart's disposition when asking faith questions. 

It is not just the questions themselves that matter. It’s also the underlying intentions and attitudes that shape the interaction with Him.

How churches can encourage questions

Churches can foster a culture where you feel encouraged to ask questions, promoting a deeper understanding of your faith journey. 

Whether you are a church leader or a member, here are ways on how you can encourage fellow believers to ask questions.

Have an open mind for discussions

Have an open-minded approach to discussions. 

For instance, encourage freely discussing your faith, sharing thoughts, and posing inquiries without fear of judgment.

Create multiple settings for inquiry 

Churches can foster questioning by offering various settings for exploration. 

It may include dedicated times for questions during Sunday school classes, opportunities for personal consultations with clergy or mentors, and encouraging families to engage in faith-related discussions at home. 

Having multiple avenues enable you to seek answers and grow in your faith journey at your own pace and comfort.

Avoid creating right or wrong answers

Your church can encourage questions by emphasizing that faith questions do not always have a clear-cut right or wrong answer. 

Understanding that faith can be deeply personal and unique to each individual allows you to explore your beliefs without the pressure of conforming to rigid doctrines.

Encourage critical thinking

Encouraging open conversations where those who question can think for themselves is crucial. 

Instead of imposing rigid beliefs, your church can provide a safe space for you to explore and reflect on your faith, enabling you to develop a deeper and more personal relationship with your spirituality.

Educate leaders on answering questions

Our church can actively encourage questions by providing training and resources to its leaders. 

When church leaders are well-equipped to address various faith inquiries, they can offer thoughtful, informed responses that guide individuals on their spiritual journeys. 

This education not only fosters an environment of trust but also ensures that those seeking answers receive meaningful, well-informed guidance from knowledgeable leaders.

Encouraging questions

Faith questions are not just permissible but encouraged in the realm of spirituality. 

God Himself invites your inquiries as a means to deepen your understanding, strengthen your relationship with Him, and navigate the complexities of your faith journey.

With this being said, do not restrain yourself or harbor fear when it comes to asking questions about your faith. Your spiritual journey thrives on curiosity and inquiry.

Likewise, for those who are approached with questions, remain open and ready to engage in healthy discussions.

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