Divine Paradoxes: Resolving Seeming Contradictions in Christian Theology
Category 3: Doctrinal Paradoxes in Salvation
1. Introduction
One of the most profound tensions in Christian theology arises from the assertion that Christ’s atoning death was for all, yet not all will be saved. Verses such as 1 John 2:2 affirm that Jesus is “the propitiation… for the sins of the whole world,” while others like Matthew 7:14 state, “narrow is the way… and few there be that find it.” How can we affirm both the universal scope of Christ’s work and the particularity of salvation’s application?
2. Scriptural Foundations
2.1 Universal Provision
- 1 John 2:2 – “He is the propitiation… for the whole world.”
- John 3:16 – “God so loved the world…”
- 1 Timothy 2:6 – “Who gave himself a ransom for all…”
- Hebrews 2:9 – “He… tasted death for every man.”
2.2 Limited Application
- Matthew 7:13–14 – “Few there be that find it.”
- Romans 8:29–30 – Only the elect are justified and glorified
- John 6:37, 44 – Only those drawn by the Father come to Christ
- Revelation 20:15 – Not all are found in the Book of Life
3. Theological Meaning
This paradox reflects the distinction between sufficiency and efficacy: Christ’s death is sufficient for all, but effective only for those who believe. The atonement is infinite in worth but not universally applied. This opens important dialogue on divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the mystery of election.
4. Paradox Explained
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Universal Atonement | Christ’s death is sufficient for all humanity |
| Particular Redemption | Salvation is only applied to those who believe |
| Divine Love | Extended to all people through the cross |
| Saving Grace | Personally received by the elect through faith |
5. Christ as the Fulfilment of Both Realities
- Jesus welcomed all sinners to come (Matthew 11:28),
- Yet He also affirmed particular election (John 10:26–27),
- His mission was both global in intent and specific in effect (John 17:9).
6. Historical Theological Perspectives
6.1 Early Church
- Irenaeus: Christ’s death is for all, but only the faithful are healed
- Origen: Hinted at universal salvation, though speculative and later rejected
6.2 Augustine and Medieval Thought
- Augustine: Salvation comes by grace alone; not all are predestined to it
- Aquinas: Atonement is universal in power, particular in application
6.3 Reformation and Post-Reformation
- Calvin: Christ died only for the elect (limited atonement)
- Arminius: Christ died for all, but only believers benefit
- John Owen: Argued that Christ’s death secured salvation for the elect—not merely made it possible
6.4 Contemporary Views
- J.I. Packer: Affirms definite atonement while recognising the sincere offer of the gospel
- John Stott: Bridged universal offer with personal responsibility
7. Doctrinal Implications
- The gospel is to be proclaimed universally,
- Only those who repent and believe receive its benefits,
- Evangelism is urgent, but regeneration is sovereign.
8. Devotional Applications
- Believers should rejoice that Christ’s death reaches them personally,
- They should also feel burdened to preach the gospel to all,
- Humility flows from knowing that salvation is a gift, not human merit.
9. Summary Table
| Truth | Scripture Example |
|---|---|
| Christ died for all | 1 John 2:2, John 3:16 |
| Not all are saved | Matthew 7:14, Revelation 20:15 |
| Gospel is to be preached to everyone | Matthew 28:19–20 |
| Only the elect respond with saving faith | Romans 8:29–30, John 6:37 |
10. Conclusion
“Christ died for all, yet only some are saved” highlights both God’s love for the world and His sovereign election. The cross extends its invitation universally, yet the door to salvation is entered individually through grace-enabled faith. This paradox teaches believers to hold both compassion and humility, and to trust that God’s justice and mercy work perfectly together.
References
- The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)
- Augustine. On Grace and Free Will
- Aquinas, T. Summa Theologiae
- Calvin, J. Institutes of the Christian Religion
- Arminius, J. Declaration of Sentiments
- Owen, J. The Death of Death in the Death of Christ
- Packer, J.I. Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God
- Stott, J. The Cross of Christ