Show me, I remember. Involve me, I understand. When Stephen Tong, one of the most prominent theologians and international evangelists in the last 25 years, was still a young nonbeliever, he specialized in sitting in the front pew throwing question after question at preachers. Now that he is on the other side of the pulpit, he provides for the doubting Thomases by setting aside time after every sermon or lecture to answer extensive questions. Many have become believers through this vehicle.
Effective inquiry requires determination to get to the bottom of things .
I always enjoy and learn a great deal from watching how experienced television journalists pursue their subjects and elicit in-depth information from the interviewees. In addition to persistence and keen insight, they use exceptional interpersonal and communication skills in crafting their sharp and relentless questions. Effective inquiry also requires wisdom and judgment . This is especially true for a long-range intellectual pursuit that is at the forefront of knowledge. When there is no path, guide, or precedent to follow, we need to do a great deal of probing.