Contradiction with Romans 3:28
Emphasizes justification by faith without deeds of the law, seemingly contradicting the requirement of following commandments in 1 John 2:4.
Romans 3:28: Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
States salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, contrasting with the necessity of keeping commandments.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Contradiction with Galatians 2:16
Highlights justification by faith in Jesus and not by observing the law, which could oppose the truth of 1 John 2:4.
Galatians 2:16: Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Contradiction with Titus 3:5
Describes salvation not by works of righteousness, which may contradict the need for commandment adherence in 1 John 2:4.
Titus 3:5: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21-23
Suggests not all who call on the Lord and do works will enter the kingdom, contrasting the idea of keeping commandments.
Matthew 7:21-23: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with 1 John 3:23
Focuses on believing in Jesus and loving one another as commands, possibly narrowing the scope contrary to the broader commandment adherence implied in 1 John 2:4.
1 John 3:23: And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or inconsistency in 1 John 2:4 could be with the concept of grace and forgiveness in Christianity. Some might argue that this verse seems to emphasize strict adherence to commandments, which could appear to conflict with teachings about being saved by grace rather than purely by one's actions or obedience. However, within Christian doctrine, it is often interpreted that obedience is a response to grace, not a means of earning it.