Contradiction with Exodus 9:4
1 Chronicles 17:21 speaks of the uniqueness of Israel, while Exodus 9:4 suggests a specific distinction of protection placed upon the livestock of Israel during the plagues, implying that uniqueness was not consistent throughout history.
Exodus 9:4: And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all [that is] the children's of Israel.
Contradiction with Numbers 23:9
This verse states that Israel shall not be reckoned among the nations, which can be seen as a contrast to the idea of a unique identity mentioned in 1 Chronicles 17:21.
Numbers 23:9: For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 4:6-7
While 1 Chronicles 17:21 emphasizes Israel's exceptional status, these verses suggest that Israel's greatness is recognized by adherence to laws rather than an inherent uniqueness.
Deuteronomy 4:6-7: Keep therefore and do [them]; for this [is] your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation [is] a wise and understanding people.
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:2
1 Chronicles 17:21 highlights Israel as unique among nations; however, Isaiah 2:2 speaks of all nations flowing to the mountain of the Lord, indicating eventual equality or unity among nations.
Isaiah 2:2: And it shall come to pass in the last days, [that] the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. [established: or, prepared]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:36-37
These verses suggest a continuation of Israel's permanence conditional on creation itself, whereas 1 Chronicles 17:21 presents the uniqueness as an established fact.
Jeremiah 31:36-37: If those ordinances depart from before me, saith the LORD, [then] the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before me for ever.
Contradiction with Amos 3:2
God acknowledges knowing only Israel among nations; however, He punishes them for iniquities, indicating a contradiction to the positive uniqueness in 1 Chronicles 17:21.
Amos 3:2: You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. [punish: Heb. visit upon]
Contradiction with Acts 10:34-35
This passage indicates that God shows no favoritism and accepts people from every nation who fear Him and do what is right, contrasting with the idea of Israel's unique place among nations in 1 Chronicles 17:21.
Acts 10:34-35: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
Paradox #1
1 Chronicles 17:21 talks about the unique relationship between God and Israel, where God performed great deeds for them. A potential contradiction could be that it implies favoritism, suggesting that God favors one group over others, which might conflict with the idea of a universal and impartial God. Some could see this as inconsistent with the belief in equality and fairness for all people.