Contradiction with Numbers 23:19
This verse states that God does not change His mind, which may contradict the notion of God changing His decision about Saul's kingdom as described in 1 Samuel 28:17.
Numbers 23:19: God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:29
It emphasizes that God does not lie or change His mind, calling into question the change of heart towards Saul's kingship expressed in 1 Samuel 28:17.
1 Samuel 15:29: And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent. [Strength: or, Eternity, or, Victory]
Contradiction with Psalm 110:4
Suggests that God's decisions are irrevocable, creating a contradiction with the revocation of Saul's kingship in 1 Samuel 28:17.
Psalm 110:4: The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:11
God regretted making Saul king, which seems inconsistent with the sovereign will seen in 1 Samuel 28:17 that Saul's kingdom is given to David.
1 Samuel 15:11: It repenteth me that I have set up Saul [to be] king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night.
Contradiction with Romans 11:29
States that God's gifts and calling are irrevocable, contradicting the change of Saul's appointment in 1 Samuel 28:17.
Romans 11:29: For the gifts and calling of God [are] without repentance.
Paradox #1
The contradiction might relate to the idea of consulting spirits or mediums, which is generally forbidden in other parts of the Bible. In 1 Samuel 28, Saul seeks advice from a spirit medium, which conflicts with Deuteronomy 18:10-12, where such practices are condemned. This creates tension between following God's laws and Saul's actions in seeking guidance.
Paradox #2
The potential doctrinal conflict might arise from the fact that God had previously denounced and forbidden necromancy and consulting the dead, as seen in other parts of the Bible, such as Deuteronomy 18:10-12. However, in 1 Samuel 28, Saul seeks guidance through a medium. This situation appears inconsistent with God’s law against such practices.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction in 1 Samuel 28:17 lies in its reference to the Philistines defeating Israel and Saul's impending fate. Earlier passages suggest Saul was chosen by God to lead and protect Israel; this raises questions about why God would now reject Saul in favor of David. The conflict is about God’s changing support and the reasons behind it.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction in 1 Samuel 28:17 could be the conflict between God's earlier decision to anoint Saul as king and now deciding to remove him. It could be seen as inconsistent for God to change His mind and actions towards Saul, which might confuse readers about the nature of divine promises and decisions.