Rhetorical: The debate begins politely. The use of "Brother Jacob" is a very powerful touch, for it creates a basis of commonality. Sherem is setting up the debate as a discussion from the inside, not an outside/inside conflict. That is, they are both believers discussing thee true nature of belief. The presumption is that a reconciliation is possible, and that the breach is not all that wide. It is a marvelous opening move, indicative of Sherem's learning.