Questions

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! […] Do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?”—Romans 6:1–3 NKJV

Paul began Romans 6 with a series of questions. This was no accident. His entire letter to the Romans is filled with questions. In the NKJV, the book of Romans has 75 questions!

Paul knew the impact questions could have. Inserting a question changes the flow of the writing and makes the words come alive for us. Whenever we read a question, we should feel challenged. We are being encouraged to stop and think, to consider the issues and how we might respond.

We see the impact of questions throughout Paul’s ministry. For example, questions were central to what he wrote about the Lord’s Supper: “Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this?” (1 Corinthians 11:22). Each question provides an opportunity for readers to answer Paul for themselves and think about the issues he discusses.

Jesus frequently used questions. The Old Testament, too, is filled with questions, presenting opportunities for us to think about what has been said. Although not a question, the word Selah is used over 70 times in the book of Psalms, encouraging us to pause and reflect.

As you read the Bible, remember to think about the questions asked. How would you respond? What is the deeper meaning for you?

Reflection Question:Spend some time answering the questions posed in Romans 6.