Contradiction with Matthew 6:24
This verse highlights that one cannot serve two masters, which contradicts Solomon's divided loyalties seen in his participation in high place worship.
Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
This verse commands not having other gods before the Lord, in contrast to Solomon's worship at high places.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 12:13-14
These verses instruct not to sacrifice and burn offerings at any place except what God has chosen, in opposition to Solomon's actions in high places.
Deuteronomy 12:13-14: Take heed to thyself that thou offer not thy burnt offerings in every place that thou seest:
Contradiction with 2 Kings 17:10-12
These verses describe setting up pillars and worshiping at high places, which is condemned, conflicting with Solomon’s worship practices.
2 Kings 17:10-12: And they set them up images and groves in every high hill, and under every green tree: [images: Heb. statues]
Contradiction with 1 John 2:15
This verse warns against loving the world and its ways, contrasting Solomon's actions where he conformed to neighboring religions by using high places.
1 John 2:15: Love not the world, neither the things [that are] in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
Paradox #1
The issue with 1 Kings 3:3 is that it mentions Solomon's love for God while also noting that he offered sacrifices at high places, which were non-traditional worship sites and sometimes associated with practices contrary to God's instructions in other parts of the Bible. This can seem inconsistent because it highlights both Solomon's devotion and his participation in practices that were later discouraged.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in 1 Kings 3:3 could be that it describes Solomon as loving the Lord and following his father David's statutes, yet it mentions that he offered sacrifices at high places. High places were often associated with pagan worship, which seems inconsistent with Solomon's devotion to God.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction in this verse could be that although Solomon loved and followed God, he still offered sacrifices at high places, which were typically used for idol worship and were not approved by God. This presents an inconsistency between his devotion to God and his actions, which reflect practices that were not in line with God's commands.