Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Corinthians 5:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Corinthians 5:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Corinthians 5:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, we should not judge people based on their outside appearance or who they were before. Even though people knew Jesus as a human, now we understand Him in a new, spiritual way.

2 Corinthians 5:16: Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [him] no more.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:17

This verse suggests adherence to the law, implying the significance of knowing Christ in His earthly form, while 2 Corinthians 5:16 emphasizes knowing Christ spiritually, beyond earthly form.

Matthew 5:17: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Contradiction with John 1:14

This verse emphasizes the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, highlighting the significance of Christ's earthly presence, which seems at odds with disregarding knowing Him "after the flesh."

John 1:14: And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Contradiction with Luke 24:39

This verse emphasizes the physical resurrection of Christ, which implies the importance of His physical nature in understanding Him, while 2 Corinthians 5:16 dismisses knowing Him in a physical sense.

Luke 24:39: Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

Contradiction with Hebrews 13:8

This verse states Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, suggesting an unchanging nature that includes His earthly attributes, contrasting with 2 Corinthians 5:16's focus on knowing Him only in a spiritual sense.

Hebrews 13:8: Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

Contradiction with 1 John 1:1

This verse describes the firsthand experience of Christ's physical presence by the apostles, affirming the value of knowing Him "after the flesh," in contrast to the spiritual-only perspective in 2 Corinthians 5:16.

1 John 1:1: That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.