Divine Paradoxes: Resolving Seeming Contradictions in Christian Theology
Category 6: Christian Experience Paradoxes
Entry
1. Introduction
The apostle Paul declares in Philippians 4:11–13 that he has “learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” Yet in the same letter, he also says, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). This presents a paradox: the Christian is called to be content with the present, yet strive eagerly for spiritual growth and greater usefulness. Is it possible to live with inner peace while also pursuing transformation and fruitfulness? Scripture affirms that true Christian maturity embraces both — contentment and aspiration.
2. Scriptural Foundations
2.1 Contentment in All Things
- Philippians 4:11–13 – Paul was content in both abundance and need, trusting in Christ’s strength.
- 1 Timothy 6:6–8 – “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
- Hebrews 13:5 – “Be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee…”
2.2 Pursuing the Prize
- Philippians 3:12–14 – Paul had not “attained,” but pressed forward in spiritual pursuit.
- 2 Peter 1:5–8 – Add to your faith virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, etc.
- 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 – The Christian life is likened to a race demanding discipline and aim.
3. Theological Significance
Christian contentment does not mean stagnation, and spiritual striving is not the same as anxious restlessness. The two coexist when:
- Contentment is rooted in Christ’s sufficiency, not circumstances,
- Pressing on means growing in grace, not striving in the flesh,
- Joy is present regardless of results, because the journey itself is a gift.
4. The Paradox Explained
| Worldly View | Biblical Truth |
|---|---|
| Contentment leads to complacency | True contentment strengthens holy ambition |
| Drive negates peace | In Christ, rest and pursuit are complementary |
| Either be satisfied or strive | The believer is both satisfied in Christ and eager to grow |
5. Christ as the Pattern
- Luke 2:52 – Jesus “grew in wisdom and stature”, though already perfect in divine nature.
- John 17:4 – Christ fulfilled His earthly mission with assurance and satisfaction.
- He was never hurried or discontent, yet always purposeful and progressing.
6. Historical Theological Reflections
6.1 Early Church
- Augustine: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee,” describing both spiritual longing and divine satisfaction.
- Gregory of Nyssa: Spiritual life is a perpetual ascent into the infinite goodness of God.
6.2 Reformation Thought
- Calvin: Contentment is “an inward quietness of heart,” while pressing on is the response to grace.
- Luther: The Christian lives in “active faith,” receiving rest while journeying in sanctification.
6.3 Modern Reflections
- Jerry Bridges: Contentment is “trusting God in every situation,” while never ceasing to pursue godliness.
- Elisabeth Elliot: “Contentment is accepting God’s sovereign plan, but obedience still demands effort.”
7. Discipleship and Devotional Implications
- Cultivate gratitude without becoming passive.
- Use present peace as fuel for holy discipline and prayerful effort.
- Teach believers that spiritual ambition is not worldliness but faithfulness.
8. Pastoral Applications
- Address both burnout and apathy by presenting the balance of rest and zeal.
- Encourage those who feel stuck by affirming small steps of faithful progress.
- Challenge high achievers to ensure their ambition is rooted in grace, not performance.
9. Missional and Ethical Dimensions
- Christian missions require contented hearts motivated by love, not restlessness.
- Ethical living arises from knowing one is accepted, not striving for worth.
10. Summary Table
| Paradox | Theological Resolution |
|---|---|
| Satisfied yet striving | Rest in Christ fuels pursuit of deeper union with Him |
| Content in all, yet pressing forward | Grace enables peace in the now, and hunger for the eternal |
| Stillness and movement in tension | The Spirit produces both serenity and sanctified drive |
11. Conclusion
To be content in all circumstances while pressing on is the mark of spiritually mature discipleship. This paradox invites the believer to rest fully in the sufficiency of Christ, while never ceasing to grow in grace and good works. In a restless world chasing fulfilment, Christians stand apart by living lives of quiet joy and eager progress, showing that peace and passion are not rivals, but companions in the life of faith.
References
- The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)
- Augustine. Confessions
- Gregory of Nyssa. The Life of Moses
- Calvin, J. Institutes of the Christian Religion
- Luther, M. Commentary on Galatians
- Bridges, J. The Practice of Godliness
- Elliot, E. Keep a Quiet Heart