Contradiction with Matthew 5:21-22
These verses expand the concept of murder to include anger and insults, suggesting a broader interpretation of what constitutes a 'murderer,' whereas 1 John 3:15 narrowly labels anyone who hates as a murderer.
Matthew 5:21-22: Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: [by: or, to]
Contradiction with Romans 13:9
This verse lists several commandments, including "Thou shalt not kill," as acts that should not be committed, differing from 1 John 3:15 which equates hatred directly with murder.
Romans 13:9: For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if [there be] any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:26
Advises to "be angry, and sin not," suggesting that anger can exist without sin or equating to murder, whereas 1 John 3:15 considers hatred akin to murder.
Ephesians 4:26: Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
Contradiction with James 2:11
Highlights that breaking one commandment, such as adultery, does not automatically make you a murderer, in contrast to 1 John 3:15 which equates hatred to being a murderer.
James 2:11: For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. [he that: or, that law which]
Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
The commandment "Thou shalt not kill" is a physical act, while 1 John 3:15 equates a mental state of hatred with the act of murder.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Paradox #1
The verse suggests that hating someone is similar to being like a murderer, and it implies that such a person does not have eternal life. A potential theological conflict could arise when considering the concept of forgiveness and redemption, which is central to Christian teachings. According to the broader message of Christianity, anyone who truly repents and seeks forgiveness through Jesus can be restored, suggesting that even those who have harbored hate can still receive eternal life if they change their ways. This could appear inconsistent if not understood in the wider context of the possibility of repentance and transformation.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or conflict could relate to the strong language used in this verse regarding hatred and its consequences. It might seem inconsistent with other teachings on forgiveness and redemption, where even severe sins can be forgiven through repentance. This could cause confusion about the nature of sin and the possibility of redemption for those who hate or act in anger.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in "1 John 3:15" might arise if one believes in forgiveness and redemption for all, yet the verse suggests a strict stance against a person with hatred in their heart. This can create conflict for those who feel forgiveness should be extended universally, even towards those who struggle with feelings of anger or hate.