Contradiction with Matthew 5:14
While 1 Thessalonians 5:5 refers to believers as "children of light," Matthew 5:14 describes them as "the light of the world," highlighting that they are the light itself, not just children of it.
Matthew 5:14: Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Contradiction with John 8:12
John 8:12 states that following Jesus will make one "have the light of life," implying it is conditional on following Jesus, whereas 1 Thessalonians 5:5 assumes believers inherently are "children of light."
John 8:12: Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Contradiction with Ephesians 5:8
Contrasts with 1 Thessalonians 5:5 by acknowledging that believers "were sometimes darkness," suggesting a transformation to becoming light, compared to the inherent identity in 1 Thessalonians.
Ephesians 5:8: For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Contradiction with Hebrews 12:8
Suggests that if you are without chastisement, you are not genuine children, which implies that becoming a "child of light" may require correction, contrasting with the assurance seen in 1 Thessalonians 5:5.
Hebrews 12:8: But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Contradiction with 1 John 1:6
States that if we claim to have fellowship with God but walk in darkness, we lie, implying a possible contradiction if any supposed "child of light" walks in darkness, contrary to the identity in 1 Thessalonians 5:5.
1 John 1:6: If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
Paradox #1
1 Thessalonians 5:5 presents the idea that believers are "children of light" and should live accordingly. The potential contradiction or conflict could arise if believers, who see themselves as inherently good or enlightened, act self-righteously or disregard the flaws and darkness in their own behaviors. This could lead to judging others harshly while ignoring personal shortcomings, creating a disconnect between the ideal and actual behavior.