Questions Jesus asked

How many questions did Jesus ask?

173 in the four gospels

• 31 in Matthew• 32 in Mark• 68 in Luke• 42 in John

Why did Jesus ask questions?

• To demonstrate he knew exactly what people were thinking

• Out of exasperation, or to confound the wise• Rhetorical; purely to encourage the listener to

consider his message or viewpoint• To the Father; genuine, deeply powerful• As an effective training tool• As a tender, personal and enquiring touch

A new approach for the Church

• When it preaches (i.e. when it proclaims the gospel)

• When it welcomes (i.e. the “attractional” model)

• When it serves (i.e. when it reaches out into the community)

The Oath for Compassionate Service

• “Limit one-way giving to emergency situations”• Give once and you elicit appreciation• Give twice and you create anticipation• Give three times and you create expectation• Give four times and it becomes entitlement• Give five times and you establish dependency

A new approach for the Church

• Preach or dialogue?• Welcome or go?• Give aid or enable development?

Questions Jesus still asks

• Who touched me?• What were you arguing about?• What do you want me to do for you?• Why are you sleeping?• What do you want?• Do you want to get well?• Has no one condemned you?• Do you love me?