Contradiction with 1 Samuel 17:45
David approaches Goliath without conventional weapons, in contrast to Saul's armor in 1 Samuel 17:39.
1 Samuel 17:45: Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 10:4
The weapons of our warfare are not physical, opposing the physical armor in 1 Samuel 17:39.
2 Corinthians 10:4: (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) [through God: or, to God]
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Jesus teaches against the use of weapons, which contrasts the idea of wearing armor in 1 Samuel 17:39.
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 Ephesians 6:11
Encourages spiritual armor instead of physical, contradicting the physical armor involved in 1 Samuel 17:39.
Ephesians 6:11: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Paradox #1
1 Samuel 17:39 might present a narrative inconsistency rather than a contradiction. The story claims that David did not want to wear King Saul's armor because he was not used to it. Some readers may find it inconsistent with portrayals of David's bravery, questioning why he would decline the extra protection if he was truly confident in facing Goliath. However, this is more of a storytelling detail than a deep theological issue. Overall, there's no significant theological conflict here.
Paradox #2
1 Samuel 17:39 presents a historical inconsistency regarding David's familiarity with armor. Earlier in the book of 1 Samuel, David is described as a skilled warrior who was already serving as a soldier for Saul. However, in this verse, it suggests that David was not accustomed to wearing armor. This can be seen as a contradiction, as one would expect a seasoned soldier to be familiar with such equipment.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this context could be about relying on physical armor versus having faith and trust in one's abilities and beliefs. The verse might seem to suggest a tension between depending on material protection and having confidence in inner strength or divine support.