In verses 23 through 27 of chapter 21, Matthew gives us a story about the chief priests of the temple attempting to trap Jesus. They ask him to name the authority under which he acts. Christ responds with his own question about whether John the Baptist was of heavenly or human origin. The chief priests are unable to answer and Jesus therefore dismisses them.
The story provides a couple of lessons. First, questions should be asked sincerely. Those chief priests didn’t care what Jesus would answer; they were insincere. They did not respect him and were only trying to trap him. But Jesus ends up embarrassing them. This is often what happens when people ask questions in an attempt to trap someone. A questioner should be genuinely interested in what the respondent has to say. No one should assume they already know the answer. In an office setting, don’t solicit an answer with the intention of using it against the respondent.
Second, this story shows the importance of good preparation. Anyone who poses a question to someone important better know what they are talking about. Jesus dismissed the chief priests’ question because they obviously were not prepared to have a meaningful conversation. They couldn’t think of anything intelligent to say about the origin of John the Baptist. When you approach a colleague, a boss, a vendor or a customer, make sure you are prepared to have a meaningful conversation. Be prepared. Never pretend to know something you don’t; eventually, you’ll only embarrass yourself.
Too bad Charles Gibson didn't read your advice before he interviewed Governor Palin. Not much sincerity in those questions...
Posted by: Dan Cross | September 15, 2008 at 02:08 PM