Divine Paradoxes: Resolving Seeming Contradictions in Christian Theology
Category 3: Doctrinal Paradoxes in Salvation
1. Introduction
The doctrine of election poses a profound tension: Scripture teaches that believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), yet they are also called and justified within history (Romans 8:30). How can one reconcile God’s eternal decree with the temporal process of conversion, repentance, and faith? This paradox highlights the relationship between God’s sovereignty and the unfolding of His plan in human time.
2. Scriptural Foundations
2.1 Eternal Election
- Ephesians 1:4–5 – “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world…”
- 2 Timothy 1:9 – “Who hath saved us… according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.”
- Romans 9:11 – God’s purpose of election is not based on human works but divine will.
2.2 Temporal Calling
- Romans 8:30 – “Whom he did predestinate, them he also called…”
- John 6:44 – “No man can come to me, except the Father… draw him.”
- Acts 2:39 – The gospel call is extended to those whom the Lord calls.
3. Theological Meaning
This paradox distinguishes God’s eternal decree (election) from its historical execution (calling). Election is God’s sovereign choice made outside of time, while calling is the moment a person is drawn, convicted, and converted by the Spirit through the preached Word. Both aspects work in harmony to fulfil God’s redemptive purpose.
4. Paradox Explained
| Eternal Truth | Temporal Manifestation |
|---|---|
| Chosen before creation (Eph. 1:4) | Called through the gospel (Rom. 8:30) |
| Salvation planned in eternity | Salvation experienced in history |
| Known by God before time | Come to know God in time |
5. Christ as the Fulfilment of Both Aspects
- Jesus is the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8),
- Yet He came in the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4),
- His mission was foreordained (1 Peter 1:20), yet enacted historically and personally.
6. Historical Theological Perspectives
6.1 Early Church
- Irenaeus: God’s foreknowledge and calling are compatible, not contradictory.
- Augustine: Emphasised God’s predestining grace as preceding all human initiative.
6.2 Reformation and Post-Reformation
- John Calvin: God’s election is hidden in His will, revealed by the effectual call.
- Jacobus Arminius: Election is based on foreseen faith, but calling is still necessary.
- Westminster Confession: “Effectual calling is of God’s free and special grace.”
6.3 Modern Evangelical Thought
- J.I. Packer: Election is “the divine blueprint,” calling is “the divine construction.”
- Millard Erickson: God’s eternal decree unfolds through the Spirit’s temporal work.
7. Doctrinal Implications
- Election is not based on human merit or foresight but on God’s grace,
- The gospel must still be preached since calling occurs through the Word (Romans 10:14),
- Assurance is found in recognising both the divine call and its evident fruit in one’s life.
8. Devotional Applications
- Rejoice in the eternal security of God’s plan (Philippians 1:6),
- Be humbled that your salvation is not an accident, but an eternal design,
- Respond eagerly to the call of God—what was decreed has now become personal.
9. Summary Table
| Aspect of Salvation | Nature |
|---|---|
| Election | Eternal, unconditional |
| Calling | Temporal, experiential |
| Grace | Originates in eternity, active in time |
| Salvation | Sovereignly planned and lovingly applied |
10. Conclusion
The paradox of being elected before time, yet called in time magnifies the glory of God’s plan. It reminds us that salvation is not reactive but redemptively intentional—we are caught up in a plan older than the world, yet personally encountered within our lifetime. It invites both confidence and worship: we are known, chosen, and drawn by a God who works sovereignly across eternity and history.
References
- The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)
- Augustine. On Predestination and Grace
- Calvin, J. Institutes of the Christian Religion
- Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter X
- Arminius, J. Declaration of Sentiments
- Packer, J.I. Knowing God
- Erickson, M. Christian Theology