Overview
The Bible addresses paradox across 20 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in 2 Corinthians, Ephesians and Matthew. Closely related themes include Self-Denial, Paul, Worldliness and Afflicted Saints. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Paul.
Key Bible verses about paradox
Old Testament
New Testament
Matthew
2 Corinthians
But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;
As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.
Ephesians
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,
May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
People in the Bible and paradox
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying paradox for yourself
- Begin with Proverbs 13:7, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how 2 Corinthians, Ephesians and Matthew each treat the theme.
- Consider the lives of Paul and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Self-Denial, Paul, Worldliness and Afflicted Saints.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about paradox?
The Bible addresses paradox across 20 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in 2 Corinthians, Ephesians and Matthew. Closely related themes include Self-Denial, Paul, Worldliness and Afflicted Saints. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Paul.
How many Bible verses are about paradox?
The Bible references paradox in 20 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention paradox?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Proverbs 13:7: “There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.”
Which people in the Bible are associated with paradox?
Paul.
Preach & teach
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