Divine Paradoxes: Resolving Seeming Contradictions in Christian Theology
Category 4: Eternality and Temporality Paradoxes
1. Introduction
In Christian theology, the believer’s life is profoundly shaped by future realities. Scripture teaches that eternal truths—such as final judgement, resurrection, heaven, and Christ’s return—have a decisive impact on how we live today. This creates a theological paradox: though the future is not yet realised, it exercises transforming power in the present. Christians are called to live as citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20), though they still dwell on earth. They suffer in this age while already possessing the hope of glory in the next.
2. Scriptural Foundations
2.1 Future-Oriented Promises with Present Effect
- 1 John 3:2–3 – “When he shall appear, we shall be like him… And every man that hath this hope… purifieth himself.”
- Romans 8:18 – “The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed…”
- 2 Peter 3:11–12 – “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be…”
2.2 Present Conduct Motivated by Future Reality
- Titus 2:13–14 – “Looking for that blessed hope… that he might redeem us from all iniquity…”
- 2 Corinthians 5:10–11 – “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ… knowing therefore the terror of the Lord…”
- Philippians 3:20–21 – “Our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour…”
3. Theological Meaning
- The Christian life is oriented eschatologically: its direction flows from the end back into the present,
- Future events are not passive possibilities, but active certainties shaping Christian identity and morality now,
- This forward-looking posture is not escapist but transformative.
4. Paradox Explained
| Future Realities | Present Implications |
|---|---|
| Final judgement is coming | Live in holiness and accountability (2 Cor. 5:10) |
| Christ will return in glory | Be watchful and faithful (Matt. 24:42–46) |
| Believers will be raised imperishable | Endure suffering with hope (1 Cor. 15:42–58) |
| A heavenly reward is promised | Labour sacrificially in love (Col. 3:23–24) |
5. The Already–Not Yet Framework
- The Kingdom of God is already inaugurated but not yet consummated,
- This shapes a mindset of present responsibility rooted in future assurance,
- Christians are called to live now as they will be then—as anticipatory signs of the coming age.
6. Historical Theological Perspectives
6.1 Early Church
- Didache and Ignatius called Christians to live in holiness and readiness due to the imminent return of Christ.
- Martyrs like Polycarp endured death because of confidence in the resurrection.
6.2 Reformation and Puritan Thought
- Martin Luther: “Live as if Christ died yesterday, rose today, and is coming tomorrow.”
- Richard Baxter: “I preach as never sure to preach again, and as a dying man to dying men.”
6.3 Modern Theology
- Oscar Cullmann emphasised the “already–not yet” tension in salvation history.
- N.T. Wright underscores how resurrection hope motivates present justice and holiness.
7. Pastoral Implications
- Future hope brings strength in suffering,
- Fear of judgement fosters repentance and holiness,
- Expectation of Christ’s return cultivates urgency, humility, and mission.
8. Summary Table
| The Future is Certain… | Therefore, Live… |
|---|---|
| Christ will reign | With obedience and trust |
| The righteous will be rewarded | With sacrificial faithfulness |
| Sin will be judged | With repentance and reverence |
| All tears will be wiped away | With courage and endurance |
9. Conclusion
The paradox of the future affecting the present challenges temporal thinking. In Christ, tomorrow’s glory breaks into today’s darkness. Christians are not driven by what is seen, but by what is promised. They live with one eye on eternity, knowing that what awaits them shapes what they become. Thus, the end defines the journey.
References
- The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)
- Cullmann, O. Christ and Time
- Wright, N.T. Surprised by Hope
- Baxter, R. The Reformed Pastor
- Luther, M. Table Talk
- Augustine. City of God