Contradiction with 1 Peter 4:15
While 1 Thessalonians 2:12 calls believers to walk worthy of God's kingdom, this verse acknowledges the potential for suffering despite righteousness, which could contradict the idea of a clear path to glory.
1 Peter 4:15: But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or [as] a thief, or [as] an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:9
This verse highlights the deceitfulness of the heart, potentially contradicting the call to live uprightly as stated in 1 Thessalonians 2:12 by emphasizing human nature's inclination toward unworthiness.
Jeremiah 17:9: The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Contradiction with Romans 3:23
This verse states that all have sinned and fall short, which contrasts the call to be worthy in 1 Thessalonians 2:12, suggesting human imperfection.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Contradiction with Isaiah 64:6
Here, righteousness is likened to filthy rags, which contradicts the notion in 1 Thessalonians 2:12 of walking worthy, indicating human actions alone are insufficient.
Isaiah 64:6: But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:20
Emphasizes that no one is consistently righteous, which could contradict the aspirational call in 1 Thessalonians 2:12 for believers to live worthily.
Ecclesiastes 7:20: For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict might arise if the guidance offered seems at odds with other biblical teachings, such as promoting humility and servanthood. Encouraging one to live in a way that seems to focus on personal worthiness or elevation might conflict with messages about humility. However, interpretations may vary.