Paradox
Summary
Paradoxes in Scripture are statements that appear contradictory yet express profound spiritual truths, particularly prominent in the teachings of Jesus.
☩Types of Paradox
Biblical paradoxes take several forms: vivid statements made without qualification to shock hearers into thought; truths that appeared strange in their original context; and profound truths expressed through seemingly contradictory ideas. Jesus employed paradox extensively—brief, memorable statements that 'stick' in the mind and force reflection.
☩The Paradoxes of the Gospel
The deepest paradoxes of Christian faith unite apparently opposing realities: life through death, joy through suffering, love through severance, peace through conflict, victory through surrender, self-realization through self-renunciation, conquering the world through the cross of shame. Paul embodied these paradoxes: 'as dying, and behold we live; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich.'