Real truth seekers are honest in both answers AND questions!

We all know what a loaded question is.  Usually we recognize them because they cannot be easily answered or answered without a longer explanation.  Often the person asking the question does not want the explanation!  They want to hold a person to a yes, no or single phrase answer.  Why?

They know this is a complicated question.  They know it requires extensive exploration and clarification. They are not, however, seeking information, they are seeking an unfair advantage.  Jesus frequently faced loaded questions.  One example:  “The Pharisees also came to Him, testing Him, and saying to Him, ‘Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason?'” (Matthew 19:3).  Jesus answers the question in a very straightforward way using God’s word to establish truth.  The Pharisees are ready with their follow-up because their question was only a set-up.  It was not an honest question.  “They said to Him, ‘Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?'”  (Matthew 19:7).  This is still a controversial question today!

When we approach spiritual questions, let’s ask real questions – questions whose answers we want to hear.  Manipulative questions are not honest.