Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 15:1 emphasizes a soft answer turning away wrath, aligning with gentleness, which seems to concur rather than contradict 1 Corinthians 4:21's mention of coming "in love, and in the spirit of meekness" versus "a rod."
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Contradiction with Matthew 21:12-13
These verses describe Jesus driving out the money changers from the temple with force, contrasting with the approach of gentleness mentioned in 1 Corinthians 4:21.
Matthew 21:12-13: And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,
Contradiction with Luke 9:54-55
Here, Jesus rebukes the disciples for wanting to call down fire, highlighting a contradiction with the use of "a rod," advocating instead for understanding and patience similar to the gentleness in 1 Corinthians 4:21.
Luke 9:54-55: And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 5:20
This passage instructs to rebuke sinners openly before others, which could contradict the gentle approach suggested in 1 Corinthians 4:21’s "love, and the spirit of meekness."
1 Timothy 5:20: Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
Contradiction with Titus 1:13
Advises rebuke with sharpness to promote sound faith, contrasting the implied choice of gentleness in 1 Corinthians 4:21.
Titus 1:13: This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;