Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
"Love your enemies, bless them that curse you" contradicts David's intent to harm Nabal and his household.
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 Romans 12:19
"Avenge not yourselves" opposes David's plan to take vengeance on Nabal.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22
"Say not thou, I will recompense evil" is directly against David's desire for retribution.
Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Contradiction with Exodus 23:4-5
Command to help your enemy's animal in distress contrasts with planning their destruction.
Exodus 23:4-5: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9
"Not rendering evil for evil" contradicts David's initial response to Nabal's insult.
1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Paradox #1
1 Samuel 25:22 might seem to show inconsistency when compared to teachings that advocate forgiveness and avoiding revenge, such as in the New Testament, where Jesus teaches to love enemies and turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-44). This contrast between Old Testament justice and New Testament forgiveness can appear conflicting to some readers.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in 1 Samuel 25:22 could be related to differing accounts of actions or events in the broader narrative of David's life and his interactions with Nabal. Different translations or interpretations might present variations in David's intentions or the severity of his proposed actions, which can lead to confusion or debate among scholars and readers about the consistency of his character or the moral lessons being conveyed.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this verse could stem from the desire for revenge and violence, which contrasts with the broader biblical teachings about forgiveness and leaving judgment to God. This inconsistency highlights the tension between personal retribution and the call for mercy and compassion.