Contradiction with Proverbs 9:8
While 1 Corinthians 14:38 suggests leaving the ignorant to remain so, Proverbs 9:8 advises reproving a wise man so that he will love you, encouraging correction instead of leaving him ignorant.
Proverbs 9:8: Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
Contradiction with Matthew 18:15
This verse instructs believers to go and show a brother his faults privately to avoid ignorance, whereas 1 Corinthians 14:38 implies leaving them as they are if they choose ignorance.
Matthew 18:15: Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
Contradiction with Hebrews 5:11-12
These verses express frustration at ignorance and urge moving beyond it to maturity, which contrasts with 1 Corinthians 14:38's implication of allowing ignorance to persist.
Hebrews 5:11-12: Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
Contradiction with James 5:19-20
This passage urges believers to bring back those who wander from the truth, contrasting with 1 Corinthians 14:38's suggestion of letting the ignorant remain in their state.
James 5:19-20: Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;
Contradiction with Proverbs 13:10
Advises seeking wisdom and counsel to avoid ignorance, while 1 Corinthians 14:38 suggests letting the ignorant be ignorant.
Proverbs 13:10: Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised [is] wisdom.
Contradiction with Galatians 6:1
Advises restoring someone in transgression gently, promoting correction, unlike 1 Corinthians 14:38 which suggests allowing ignorance to be.
Galatians 6:1: Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. [if: or, although]
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 2:25
This verse encourages correcting opponents with gentleness, suggesting proactive engagement as opposed to 1 Corinthians 14:38's stance.
2 Timothy 2:25: In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
Contradiction with Titus 1:13
Calls for a sharp rebuke to correct and strengthen, opposing the hands-off approach suggested in 1 Corinthians 14:38.
Titus 1:13: This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;
Contradiction with Colossians 3:16
Encourages teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom, differing from the directive in 1 Corinthians 14:38 to let ignorance persist.
Colossians 3:16: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:24
Prompts believers to spur one another toward love and good deeds, which is contrary to letting someone remain in ignorance as in 1 Corinthians 14:38.
Hebrews 10:24: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in this verse could be seen in how it addresses people who choose not to acknowledge or understand certain teachings. On one hand, the emphasis on ensuring understanding and order may seem dismissive or exclusionary to those who might struggle with or question the teachings. This could conflict with other biblical principles that emphasize patience, teaching, and inclusivity. However, interpretations vary widely, and some may not see this as a contradiction.