Contradiction with Matthew 7:13-14
These verses suggest that only a few find the path to life, in contrast to the idea of God desiring all to be saved.
Matthew 7:13-14: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [strait: or, narrow]
Contradiction with Matthew 22:14
This verse states that many are called, but few are chosen, implying a contradiction to the notion that God wants all to be saved.
Matthew 22:14: Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in [his] talk.
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12
These verses indicate that God sends a strong delusion so some will believe a lie, contradicting the idea of universal salvation desire.
2 Thessalonians 2:11-12: And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
Contradiction with Romans 9:18
This verse highlights God's sovereignty in showing mercy to some and hardening others, conflicting with the universal salvation desire.
Romans 9:18: Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth.
Contradiction with John 12:40
This verse explains that God has blinded eyes and hardened hearts to prevent understanding and salvation, contradicting a desire for all to be saved.
John 12:40: He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with [their] eyes, nor understand with [their] heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.
Contradiction with Mark 4:11-12
Jesus uses parables so that some would not understand and be converted, which seems to oppose the idea of universal salvation desire.
Mark 4:11-12: And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all [these] things are done in parables:
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction because this verse suggests that God wants all people to be saved, yet not everyone is saved. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of God's plan or power. Others reconcile this by saying it emphasizes human free will or that the verse is more about God's desire rather than a guaranteed outcome.
Paradox #2
Some people see a conflict between this verse and the idea of predestination. Predestination suggests that God has already chosen who will be saved, while this verse seems to say that God wants everyone to be saved. So, the contradiction is between God's desire for all to be saved and the belief that only certain people are chosen for salvation.
Paradox #3
1 Timothy 2:4 mentions God's desire for all to be saved, which can seem inconsistent with other biblical passages that suggest only some people will be saved or are chosen. This can create a tension between the ideas of universal salvation and predestination, leading to different interpretations among Christian denominations.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction could arise from the idea that if everyone is meant to be saved and come to know the truth, it raises the question of why some people do not receive the message or do not choose to accept it. This could lead to questions about free will, fairness, and the nature of divine justice, as it seems contradictory for all to be intended for salvation but not all to achieve it.