Paradoxical Scriptures 07-24-2014

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). These verses claim the way of Jesus is easy. Then come Jesus’ words, “Any one of you who looks at another lustfully has already committed adultery… if you say, ‘You fool,’ (to anyone), you will be liable to the hell of fire” (Matthew 5:28, 22). These verses maintain the way of Jesus is exceedingly difficult. So Jesus’ way is paradoxical in nature—both easy and difficult.

Jesus’ sayings are paradoxical and multi-layered—“the first will be last,” “turn the other cheek,” “whoever is innocent should be the first to cast a stone” (Matthew 20: 16b, Matthew 5:39, John 8:7). Then we arrive at the essence of paradox: “Love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44). Throughout the parables the paradoxical teachings continue: Give to receive. Die to live. Lose to win. Paul mirrors Jesus’ paradoxes when he exclaims, “Whenever I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

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Many ministers and New Testament teachers avoid Jesus’ paradoxical teachings. Many prefer Paul’s straightforward approach. Yet Paul wasn’t God incarnate. Jesus was. And Jesus taught paradox because that’s where the transformational power is.