Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Contradicts because it emphasizes loving even those we naturally do not love, whereas 1 John 4:20 focuses on someone claiming to love God but hating a brother, suggesting inconsistency.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Contradicts by urging to love enemies, highlighting the inconsistency in claiming to love God while hating others, as noted in 1 John 4:20.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with James 2:9
Contradicts by condemning partiality, suggesting that hating a brother while claiming to love God is hypocritical, like showing favoritism.
James 2:9: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.
Contradiction with 1 John 2:9
Contradicts by stating anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother is in darkness, paralleling 1 John 4:20's view on the false claim of loving God.
1 John 2:9: He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:8
Contradicts by highlighting hypocrisy of honoring God with words but not the heart, similar to claiming to love God but hating a brother.
Matthew 15:8: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with [their] lips; but their heart is far from me.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between loving God and loving others if they find it difficult to love certain people who are hard to get along with. They might wonder how they can truly claim to love God if they struggle with loving every person. This can feel inconsistent with their understanding of what it means to love. However, many interpret this as a reminder that genuine love for God naturally leads to love for others, encouraging them to strive towards this ideal even if it's challenging.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction between "1 John 4:20" and other biblical teachings about love and hate, especially when comparing it to verses that talk about loving enemies or the nature of sin. They might wonder how someone can claim to love God but hate a fellow person, especially when many teachings emphasize love and forgiveness. This can seem inconsistent if not understood in the broader context of biblical love being unconditional and selfless.
Paradox #3
1. A potential contradiction could arise when comparing the call to love others with instances in the Bible where actions do not appear loving, such as in certain Old Testament stories where violence is commanded or depicted.2. Inconsistencies might appear when looking at how different Christian communities interpret what it means to "love your brother" and how this impacts social, political, or personal behaviors.3. Conflict could emerge when individuals or groups who profess to follow Christian teachings exhibit behavior that seems at odds with the message of love outlined in this verse.These issues reflect on challenges in consistently practicing the message rather than a contradiction in the verse itself.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in that verse can arise if someone claims to love a higher power or concept they cannot see but fails to show love or kindness to those around them whom they can see. This inconsistency highlights the challenge of reconciling professed beliefs with actual behavior toward others.