Contradiction with 1 John 3:10
This verse states that those who do not practice righteousness are not of God, contradicting the idea that Abijam did evil in the sight of the LORD and yet his heart was not seen as wholly against God.
1 John 3:10: In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
Contradiction with James 4:4
Declares that friendship with the world is enmity with God, contradicting the notion in 1 Kings 15:3 that Abijam's actions were evil but partially justified due to his lineage.
James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:17-18
This passage teaches that a good tree cannot bear bad fruit, contradicting the idea that Abijam, though considered doing evil, could still be seen positively in some aspects.
Matthew 7:17-18: Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:22
States that lying lips are an abomination to the LORD; this contrasts with the implication that Abijam's evil actions might still be acceptable in certain contexts.
Proverbs 12:22: Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.
Paradox #1
There could be a perceived inconsistency regarding how some kings are judged or described. While Asa is noted for being fully devoted to the Lord, Abijam is said to have committed sins like his father, yet is still allowed to rule. This can raise questions about why some kings are given more favorable descriptions or outcomes despite their actions, potentially conflicting with the idea of divine justice or consistency.
Paradox #2
1 Kings 15:3 might seem to contradict other Bible verses that emphasize following God's commandments fully and faithfully. In 1 Kings 15:3, it mentions someone not having a heart fully devoted to God, which can seem inconsistent when compared to verses that highlight individuals who are commended for their full devotion and obedience to God. This contrast could be seen as a conflict in understanding what it truly means to be faithful or obedient in one’s relationship with God.
Paradox #3
1 Kings 15:3 mentions that Abijam's heart was not fully devoted to God, unlike David’s. A potential inconsistency arises when comparing this to 2 Chronicles 13:10-12, where Abijam (or Abijah) is shown to have some religious devotion and faith in God during a battle. This could seem inconsistent because one account highlights his lack of devotion, while the other depicts him displaying strong faith.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or inconsistency in 1 Kings 15:3 could be seen in how a person is portrayed as both sinful and yet still compared favorably to a good ancestor. This could raise questions about the fairness of judgment or the criteria for being seen as righteous.
Paradox #5
1 Kings 15:3 mentions the behavior of a king, suggesting that he did not follow the ways of the Lord as his ancestors did. However, this might seem inconsistent when compared to other verses that describe the behavior of his ancestors, who themselves sometimes were not fully faithful. This could create a perception of conflict regarding the standards of faithfulness being applied.