Just speculating, but they have picked up on the Socratic method aspect. Some find that condescending. If that's actually your goal (as indicated by "I was hoping the recipient would understand"), it's not so much a legitimate question that you want to know the answer to, is it? With your explanation, it's more of a rhetorical device.
Personally, I didn't read it that way (nor did I down vote you), but given your follow-up, I can see how some might.