Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:7
This verse states that the manifestation of the Spirit is given to everyone for the common good, contradicting the notion of speaking in tongues only to God and not to men.
1 Corinthians 12:7: But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
Contradiction with Acts 2:6
In this verse, people hear the apostles speaking in their own languages, suggesting tongues can be understood by others, contrary to speaking only to God.
Acts 2:6: Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. [was...: Gr. voice was made confounded: or, troubled in mind]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:5
This verse expresses a desire for all to speak in tongues, but even more that they prophesy, indicating a preference for prophecy for edification, suggesting a broader purpose than just speaking to God.
1 Corinthians 14:5: I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater [is] he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:27
This verse instructs that if anyone speaks in tongues, it should be by two or three and interpreted, implying a communal purpose, which contrasts with speaking solely to God.
1 Corinthians 14:27: If any man speak in an [unknown] tongue, [let it be] by two, or at the most [by] three, and [that] by course; and let one interpret. [two...: by two or three sentences separately]
Paradox #1
Some people think there might be a contradiction because this verse talks about speaking in tongues being directed to God and not understood by others, while other verses in 1 Corinthians 14 emphasize the importance of making sure that speaking in tongues benefits the whole church community. This could seem inconsistent because one part highlights a personal, mystical experience, while the other stresses understanding and edification for everyone.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or inconsistency with this verse might arise when considering the need for interpretation of spiritual gifts, like speaking in tongues, to edify the church community. Elsewhere in the same chapter, it emphasizes the importance of understanding and clarity in communication within the church for the benefit of all. This could seem inconsistent if speaking in tongues is a personal communication with God that others cannot understand or benefit from directly without interpretation.
Paradox #3
Some people see a contradiction between this verse and other parts of the Bible that emphasize the importance of understanding and interpreting messages. In this verse, speaking in tongues is portrayed as speaking mysteries only God understands, which can seem inconsistent with passages that stress clarity and mutual understanding in communication within the church.
Paradox #4
This verse talks about speaking in tongues, which is a spiritual gift. A potential contradiction or conflict here could be related to communication and understanding. While speaking in tongues is seen as a special connection with the divine, it might create confusion or exclusion among those who cannot understand the language being spoken. This could conflict with the moral idea of inclusivity and clear communication within a community.