Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Corinthians 12:23

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Corinthians 12:23 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Corinthians 12:23. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, everyone in a group is important, even if they seem less special. We should treat those who seem less important with extra care and respect.

1 Corinthians 12:23: And those [members] of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely [parts] have more abundant comeliness. [bestow: or, put on]

Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:3-4

Emphasizes inner beauty over outward appearance, whereas 1 Corinthians 12:23 suggests bestowing honor on less honorable parts.

1 Peter 3:3-4: Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

Contradiction with James 2:1-4

Warns against showing favoritism, contradicting the idea of giving more honor to certain parts.

James 2:1-4: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, [the Lord] of glory, with respect of persons.

Contradiction with Matthew 23:27-28

Criticizes focusing on external appearance, contrasting with the idea of bestowing honor on outwardly less comely parts.

Matthew 23:27-28: Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead [men's] bones, and of all uncleanness.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7

States that the Lord looks at the heart, not appearance, contradicting the focus on outward honor in 1 Corinthians 12:23.

1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]

Contradiction with Proverbs 31:30

Prioritizes fearing the Lord over physical charm or beauty, conflicting with the notion of assigning honor based on appearance.

Proverbs 31:30: Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

Paradox #1

The moral conflict in this verse could be seen in the way it suggests giving greater honor to parts that are less honorable. This might seem inconsistent because it implies a kind of inequality by ranking parts based on honor, even though the broader message advocates for unity and equal value within a community. This may create tension between promoting equality and acknowledging different roles or honors.

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