Contradiction with Proverbs 3:35
This verse suggests that the wise will inherit glory, implying a positive view of those considered wise by the world, as opposed to being generally unwise or of lower status as indicated in 1 Corinthians 1:26.
Proverbs 3:35: The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. [shall be...: Heb. exalteth the fools]
Contradiction with James 1:5
This verse encourages asking for wisdom, which may seem contrary to the notion in 1 Corinthians 1:26 that suggests God chooses the foolish things of the world, implying a different valuation of wisdom.
James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Contradiction with Proverbs 13:20
This verse emphasizes the benefits of walking with the wise, which seems to contrast with the implication of undervaluing worldly wisdom in 1 Corinthians 1:26.
Proverbs 13:20: He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. [destroyed: Heb. broken]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:12
Highlights wisdom as beneficial, providing a defense, which appears at odds with the notion of God's choice of the seemingly foolish as per 1 Corinthians 1:26.
Ecclesiastes 7:12: For wisdom [is] a defence, [and] money [is] a defence: but the excellency of knowledge [is, that] wisdom giveth life to them that have it. [defence: Heb. shadow]
Contradiction with Acts 18:24-25
Describes Apollos as an eloquent and knowledgeable man, which contrasts with the notion in 1 Corinthians 1:26 of God not calling many who are wise by human standards.
Acts 18:24-25: And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
Contradiction with Proverbs 4:7
This verse describes wisdom as the principal thing to get, which seems to contrast with 1 Corinthians 1:26 where not many wise are called.
Proverbs 4:7: Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Contradiction with Daniel 2:21
Indicates that wisdom and knowledge are given by God, suggesting a reverence for wisdom that seems inconsistent with the portrayal in 1 Corinthians 1:26.
Daniel 2:21: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Contradiction with 1 Kings 4:29-30
Describes Solomon’s wisdom as a gift from God, which contrasts with the notion that few wise are called according to worldly standards as suggested in 1 Corinthians 1:26.
1 Kings 4:29-30: And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that [is] on the sea shore.
Contradiction with Matthew 23:34
Mentions sending wise men (and others), possibly contradicting 1 Corinthians 1:26 which implies God does not frequently select the wise by worldly standards.
Matthew 23:34: Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and [some] of them ye shall kill and crucify; and [some] of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute [them] from city to city:
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:2
Suggests wisdom is associated with humility, contrasting with the implication of 1 Corinthians 1:26 about the lack of correlation with calling and worldly wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2: [When] pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly [is] wisdom.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:16
Acknowledges the value of wisdom over strength, which conflicts with the theme in 1 Corinthians 1:26 about God choosing what is foolish in the world’s eyes.
Ecclesiastes 9:16: Then said I, Wisdom [is] better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom [is] despised, and his words are not heard.
Paradox #1
This verse highlights the idea that not many wise, powerful, or noble people are chosen by God, which could seem to contradict the belief that everyone is valued and has equal potential in faith, regardless of their status. This might seem in conflict with the idea of impartial love and equality in spiritual worth.