Are We Looking for Questions or Answers?

by Doy Moyer

My co-worker made an observation in a lesson on doubt that is worth further exploring. The idea is that there is a difference between the one who is constantly seeking questions and the one who is seeking answers. The following is not intended to be a list of hard rules with no exceptions. Rather, these are observations I have found to be fairly typical in my own experiences: 

The question-seeker is rarely satisfied with any answers, but continually asks unanswerable questions.  

The answer-seeker has questions, too, but is able to recognize legitimate answers and is happy to find them. 

The question-seeker’s follow up is to the effect of, “Yeah, but what about…?” 
The answer-seeker’s follow up is to the effect of, “Now let me understand how to apply this.” 

The question-seeker mistakes a search for questions with a humble search for truth. 
The answer-seeker finds truth through humble acceptance of legitimate answers.

The question-seeker looks for clever ways to ask the questions so as to stump others. 
The answer-seeker looks for clarity, not to stump anyone, but to lead to solid conclusions. 

The question-seeker sees the questions as an end in themselves since no answers suffice. 
The answer-seeker sees the questions as a means to find real answers. 

The question-seeker uses the lack of answers as a reason to raise doubts. 
The answer-seeker uses the lack of answers as a way keep seeking and finally trust in the One who does have the answers. 

The question-seeker asks questions without learning much from them. 
The answer-seeker asks questions to foster learning. 

The question-seeker uses unanswered questions to suspend judgment upon God and Christ. 
The answer-seeker suspends judgment on an unanswered question, but can still trust God. 

The reader will probably be able to think of more contrasts, but the question I need to ask myself is simple: am I a question-seeker or an answer-seeker? 

 

Other Articles by Doy Moyer 
Brotherly Love
Was Jesus Literally Forsaken?
Baptism and the Blood
The Problem With Creeds
Alcohol and Wisdom