The holiness paradox
Holiness: as we progress, we find ourselves not getting closer to the goal, but rather getting further away from it. We see the Holiness of God (Matthew 5:8) more clearly and the span between his holiness and our righteousness becomes even greater. Note the progression of Paul as time went by: first he considered himself the least of the apostles, then the least of the saints, and then he declares that he is the chief of sinners.
1) 1 Corinthians 15:9
For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
2) Ephesians 3:8
To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,
3) 1 Timothy 1:15
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
Tags: Theology
