The Value of Questions

In evangelistic encounters we need to be prepared to answer objections and to engage in conversation. However, even if we feel we have prepared ourselves intellectually for these encounters – whether that has been through studying apologetics or some other means – the task of how to engage someone in conversation is a whole different challenge in itself. When opportunities present themselves we can often struggle to know what to say or how to say it.

The Bible provides a wealth of insight for how to talk with others about the gospel, and it may be surprising that it begins with us asking questions.

From the beginning of our Bible God confronted people by asking questions (Genesis 3:9-11). God used questions to expose and confront Adam’s sin. The Lord Jesus did the same throughout the Gospels. It is striking how often Christ answered an objection or began conversation with a question (a prime example is his conversation with the Samaritan woman in John 4). 

With this in mind, I’ve tried to use questions more in my own conversations with unbelievers, and I’ve already found it extremely helpful. 

There are a number of reasons for this.

First of all, asking good questions sets the tone for a conversation. Rather than berating an individual, we are able to stay calm and allow the discussion to feel more natural. It is easier to keep the other person on-side and prevent them getting defensive if they are simply being asked about what they believe. “Do you ever think about whether or not God exists?” “Do you go to church yourself?” “What do you think happens after you die?” These questions present a more inviting tone for others and makes their voice feel valued in discussion where it is easy to start shutting out other points of view.

It is important to remember when asking these ‘location questions’ (questions that locate where the person is spiritually) to listen – to listen with a real interest in what they are saying and what they believe, not simply waiting for our chance to jump in. When we genuinely listen to others it will help us to give a better answer ourselves as we gain clarity about what the person believes and needs to hear.

Questions also help take the pressure off us. When someone makes a claim it is helpful to remember that they now bear the burden of proof. When someone says, “There is no God,” our instinct can be to rapidly try and debunk their claim. In reality, it is their responsibility to substantiate their claim. This approach is easier on us mentally and very often is more effective. Many people have not given enough thought to these issues – often parroting something they’ve heard online.  Asking them why they believe what they claim to believe will often show them their need to think things through with more care. 

It is true that sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness (Proverbs 16:21), and it is much sweeter for people to feel valued and part of a conversation. Asking questions helps accomplish this. 

Making a habit of engaging with people by asking questions is not easy. I know I am way too quick to jump in with my own ramblings instead of taking a slower, wiser path of asking questions, connecting with the person and helping them see the flaws in their worldview. 

This approach to evangelistic conversations was labelled the ‘Tactical approach’ by Greg Koukl in his book Tactics. I found this book extraordinarily helpful for my own discussions with others and would certainly recommend it.