Contradiction with Proverbs 28:5
This verse states that those who seek the Lord understand all things, which contradicts the idea that the natural man cannot comprehend spiritual matters.
Proverbs 28:5: Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all [things].
Contradiction with Romans 1:20
This verse suggests that the invisible qualities of God are clearly seen and understood, contradicting the notion that natural man cannot grasp spiritual truths.
Romans 1:20: For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [so...: or, that they may be]
Contradiction with John 16:13
This verse states that the Spirit will guide believers into all truth, which implies that understanding is possible, contradicting the limitation suggested in 1 Corinthians 2:14.
John 16:13: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Contradiction with Psalm 19:1-4
This passage shows that God's glory and knowledge are declared by creation itself and are universally perceptible, which contradicts the claim that natural man cannot perceive spiritual truths.
Psalm 19:1-4: [To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.] The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
Contradiction with Romans 2:14-15
This mentions that Gentiles, who do not have the law, act according to nature and law written in their hearts, suggesting an inherent understanding contrary to 1 Corinthians 2:14.
Romans 2:14-15: For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:
Paradox #1
The verse suggests that certain spiritual truths cannot be understood by those who are not spiritual or do not have the Spirit. Some people might see a contradiction if they believe that everyone has the ability to understand spiritual matters equally, regardless of their beliefs or spiritual state. Others might question how spiritual understanding is imparted and whether it aligns with the idea of universal accessibility to truth.
Paradox #2
The idea in the verse is that some spiritual truths are understood through faith and the Spirit, not through natural reasoning alone. A contradiction could be the implication that some important truths are inaccessible through empirical evidence and reason, which goes against the scientific method that relies on observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning to understand the world. Therefore, there might be tension between valuing faith-based understanding and the scientific approach that prioritizes evidence.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict could be that the verse suggests that spiritual understanding is limited to those who have a certain mindset or are spiritually inclined. This might raise questions about fairness and inclusivity, as not everyone has the same spiritual beliefs or experiences, yet might seek to understand spiritual truths. This could be seen as conflicting with ideas of universal access to wisdom or truth.