Prepare the Way

Inquiry - Ask the Right Questions

Matthew 11:2-15

Questions can be a catalyst for growth and ultimately lead us to God, who is the answer. 
How do we grow as believers by asking the right questions?

1)   Questions can be scary. Don’t be afraid to ask. (vs. 2-3)

A)   The Lord wants you to ask important questions.  (Matthew 7:7-11)

• “God, what do you want me to do?”

•  “Will you forgive me?”

• “How can I pray for you?”

• “Will you come to church with me?”

•  “Can I share my story with you?”

B)   Asking important questions deepens connection to God and others by:

• Building trust.

• Creating buy-in.

•  Empowering.

• Developing leadership capacity.

• Creating authenticity.

2)   Focus on the work of the Gospel and be reassuring. (vs. 4-6) A)   Ask with the right heart: (James 4:1-3)

• Belief > Actions > Feelings/Perceptions

B)   The way we form our questions forms our relationships.

• Know who you are and who you are talking to: Adult, Parent, or Child.

  • Typical questions for our kids:

    • How was your day? 

    • Did you learn anything? 

    • Were you good?

  • Deeper questions to ask:

    • How do you feel after your day? 

    • What questions did you ask? 

    • What was the best thing that happened? 

    • What was the worst thing that happened? 

3)   Build others up in your interaction. (vs. 7-15)

A)   The way we respond to questions forms our leadership.

• Leadership = influence.

B)   Be led by grace. (Colossians 4:5-6)