Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Kings 18:40

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Kings 18:40 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Kings 18:40. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the story of Elijah, he asked the people to catch the prophets of Baal, who were teaching people to worship a false god. Then, Elijah made sure they could not hurt anyone anymore by putting an end to them by the river.

1 Kings 18:40: And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape. And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there. [Take: or, Apprehend]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

This verse, which instructs to "love your enemies," contradicts 1 Kings 18:40, where Elijah orders the execution of the prophets of Baal.

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 Exodus 20:13

The commandment "Thou shalt not kill" conflicts with the actions of Elijah in 1 Kings 18:40, where execution occurs.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

Jesus advises to "put up again thy sword," implying that violence leads to more violence, contrasting Elijah's directive in 1 Kings 18:40.

Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

Contradiction with Luke 6:27-28

These verses advocate for loving and blessing those who persecute you, contrary to the lethal actions taken in 1 Kings 18:40.

Luke 6:27-28: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Contradiction with Romans 12:17-19

The instruction to "recompense to no man evil for evil" and "avenge not yourselves" contradicts the retaliation depicted in 1 Kings 18:40.

Romans 12:17-19: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Paradox #1

1 Kings 18:40 may be viewed as conflicting with teachings about mercy, forgiveness, and the value of human life because it describes a violent act carried out by a prophet. This can seem inconsistent with the message of love and forgiveness emphasized in other parts of the Bible, particularly in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.

Paradox #2

The verse could be seen as inconsistent with teachings about mercy, forgiveness, or the commandment "Thou shalt not kill." It shows an action that might conflict with these broader biblical principles.

Paradox #3

One possible contradiction or inconsistency with 1 Kings 18:40 could be the moral or ethical implications of the actions described, which might conflict with later biblical teachings on mercy and forgiveness. Some readers might find it difficult to reconcile this verse with the messages of compassion and forgiveness emphasized in the New Testament.

Paradox #4

The contradiction in this verse arises from the act of violence commanded by a prophet, which may conflict with principles of forgiveness, mercy, and love that are also present in other parts of religious teachings. This can be seen as inconsistent with the broader message of compassion found in many spiritual teachings.

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