I recently picked up a book on critical thinking, which I'm now reading. I came across something called the "Socratic Method," in the early pages of the book.
Why I'm writing a blog post on this is because it struck a chord with me. And that's because I’ve been that question-asker, especially later in life.
Anyway, the Socratic Method is simply the art of asking questions to get to the heart of understanding—probing, reflecting, and refusing to accept easy answers, or as I like to say, "safe answers," that don't encourage further discussion on the subject at hand.
Back in nursing school years ago, a classmate once told me I was 'undermining the instructor.' I don't believe her comment was meant to put me down or discourage my habit of constantly asking questions. Instead, I saw it as well-intentioned, especially since we are inherently respectful and polite in our country of origin—though I don't mean to suggest that other cultures aren't.
My reasoning around this stems from the centuries-long suppression the country experienced under another nation's governance–a time when we didn't have a voice.
I'm not claiming that this period brought about no good, because even to this day, we address those above us, such as at workplaces, as 'Sir' or 'Ma'am.' This is also expected in many direct customer service interactions. And even now, we kiss the hands of the elderly, even if the person is much younger than us, if their blood lineage calls for the respect reserved for an older person. This is why I know that her comment was well-meaning.
With that said, not wanting to stir the pot, or showing disrespect or impoliteness, I would raise questions.
So, imagine my delight as I read this book. It felt like a vindication. And now that I have joined an online Bible study compiled by Anne Graham Lotz, "Jesus in Me," part of the study session is asking a lot of questions, pondering and journaling.
And, learning from another platform that Jesus also asked questions during His time that made people, even those very close to Him, think and reflect questions— were powerful tools for growth. They invite us to go beyond superficial faith and encounter the truth personally. This should remind us that asking questions isn’t doubt—but what it is, is a valid dialogue.
Furthermore, I learned about the Bereans in the Bible, in Acts 17:11:
“Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.”
The Bereans didn’t just accept what they heard blindly. They checked the Scriptures themselves, and sought clarity. Not to be mistaken an act of rebellion, but hunger for practical understanding.
Much like critical thinking in nursing—we look for the rationale behind the 'why' into doing things. In anything, when we understand something, we'd appreciate it, and chances are that we will remember it and put it into action. Again, 'applied knowledge' finds a room.
Life is a journey—often messy, sometimes uncertain, and always leads to a destination. Faith gives it purpose so our growth leads to Jesus—The Way. The Truth, and The Life.
Asking questions is faith in action. It’s a way of saying, “God, I want to know You more deeply. Help me understand.”
So, the next time we want to ask questions, we demonstrate a hunger for truth or clarity. It's just to show that we refuse to settle for easy answers or shallow understanding. It is to indicate that we open ourselves up to learn, and to be transformed in the process.
With regards to faith— curiosity is a holy spark that lights the way to deeper understanding and stronger faith.
This means we got to ask boldly. Think deeply, so we watch our faith grow in ways we never expected.
Now is your turn to share your stories ingrained with a heavenly touch. Shoot me a message, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Many Blessings!
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