Jesus asked a total of 339 questions throughout the four Gospels of the New Testament.
The distribution of these questions is as follows:
- 109 in Matthew
- 68 in Mark
- 107 in Luke
- 55 in John
These questions serve to provoke thought, reveal deeper truths, and engage listeners in meaningful reflection, leveraging the inherent power of inquiry to connect and communicate effectively.
Condensing the 339 questions Jesus asked into ten representative questions captures the essence of His teaching and the core themes of His ministry.
Here are ten questions that encapsulate the primary messages and inquiries Jesus made:
Who do you say that I am? Matthew 16:15 - Jesus asked His disciples this question to prompt them to reflect on their understanding of His identity.
What do you want me to do for you? Mark 10:51 - This question was asked to blind Bartimaeus, highlighting Jesus' willingness to meet individual needs and His desire for us to articulate our desires.
Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? Mark 4:40 - Jesus asked this during a storm, emphasizing the importance of faith over fear.
What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? Mark 8:36 - This question challenges the value we place on material wealth versus spiritual well-being.
Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? Luke 6:46 - Jesus questioned the sincerity of those who profess to follow Him but do not act accordingly.
Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:27 - This question underscores the futility of worry and encourages trust in God's provision.
Do you want to be healed? John 5:6 - Asked to a man at the pool of Bethesda, this question highlights the need for personal desire and willingness in the process of healing.
Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Matthew 7:3 - This question addresses the issue of hypocrisy and the importance of self-awareness before judging others.
What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? Matthew 16:26 - This reiterates the eternal value of the soul over temporary worldly gains.
Do you love me? John 21:17 - Jesus asked Peter this question three times after His resurrection, reinforcing the significance of love and loyalty in following Him.
These questions collectively cover themes of identity, faith, fear, desire, sincerity, worry, healing, hypocrisy, value, and love, which are central to Jesus' teachings in the Gospels.
339 Questions Jesus Asked (pdf)
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