"The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law." - Deuteronomy 29:29

    How many people have the courage to answer, "I don't know" when asked a question they don't have an answer to?  How many pastors can answer that way?  How many armchair theologians can answer, "I don't know?"

    Oh, I'm sure you'll find a good many theology students and teachers that will say they don't know every single thing, that they are still learning.  But in practice, they sure do seem to be answer machines!  Many will even give you answers to questions you haven't even asked!  

    "I don't know," is an answer I almost never hear from folks regarding spiritual questions.   Why is that? I think it's because men are too proud to admit they don't know something.  And oh, I feel bad for the poor pastor.   Pastors are expected to have answers to everything.  "I don't know," just isn't an acceptable answer in some parts.  Not only is it unacceptable for the speaker, it's also unacceptable to the person asking the questions!      

    So think about this before you answer someone's question again.  Do you really KNOW?  If you don't, then say so.  People may or may not think less of you.  However, to those who are of no reputation, it does not matter.  Speaking the truth in love is what's important.  And if you don't know - you just don't know.  Let's not generate or perpetuate falsehoolds because we don't have the courage to humbly admit we don't know the answer.