Many people today are lost and dying in their search for life's answers. They seek satisfaction in earthly possessions and relationships, which often become broken and end bitterly. They, as little children often do, have lots and lots of questions. As Christians, we have the answer, however, are we sharing the answer with others? Jesus is still the answer for what ails the world today. He can cure our plagues and solve our problems if we only allow Him to do so. We read in Acts 4:12, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."

A good teacher can tell if a student is learning by the types of questions he or she asks. I tend to disagree with the old adage, "The only dumb question is one that is not asked." I have known many students who seem to enjoy asking questions which are not relevant to the topic at hand. I believe, the worth or value of a question lies in the motivation or reason why the question is being asked.

There are basically three types of questions. First, some merely ask questions to try and get the instructor off track or on to another topic. Second, others ask questions to draw attention to themselves or for selfish ambitions. They ask questions in an attempt to take a shortcut and hurry and complete the required exercise. Third, students ask sincere questions in an attempt to learn and gain knowledge which they can apply.

Jesus was asked many questions during His ministry. Some tried to trick or trap Him, others wanted to become powerful themselves, and still others sincerely desired to learn. See Matthew 22:15-22; 19:16-24; and 17:10-13.

The Philippian jailer sincerely and earnestly asked Paul and Silas, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" He did not want the answer simply for the sake of acquiring the answer, but rather wanted to know so that he could take action and responsibility for his own life. Paul and Silas readily knew and provided the answer. They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved." All of the other members of the jailer's household were also saved. They were saved not by the faith and belief of the jailer, but by their own faith, belief, and acceptance. Note they were simply introduced to the gospel of Jesus through the belief of the jailer. See Acts 16:32-33.

In Romans 10:9-10 we are instructed, "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved."

The story concludes in verse 40 with Paul and Silas getting out of prison. What a happy day that must have been. However, the joy cannot compare to that of accepting Christ and being released from the bondage of sin. May we, as Paul and Silas, encourage others in the faith and be willing to provide the answer.