Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Corinthians 5:9

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Corinthians 5:9 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Corinthians 5:9. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, we work hard to please God, whether we are with Him or not. We want to make God happy with what we do.

2 Corinthians 5:9: Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. [labour: or, endeavour]

Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9

These verses emphasize salvation by grace through faith, not by works, which could contrast with the idea of actively laboring to be accepted by God found in 2 Corinthians 5:9.

Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:

Contradiction with Titus 3:5

This verse highlights salvation not by works of righteousness but according to God's mercy, which may appear at odds with the active striving mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5:9.

Titus 3:5: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Contradiction with Romans 4:4-5

It argues that works are not a basis for justification before God, potentially conflicting with the exhortation to labor to be accepted by God in 2 Corinthians 5:9.

Romans 4:4-5: Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.

Contradiction with Galatians 2:16

Emphasizes justification by faith in Jesus Christ and not by the works of the law, which could be seen as contradicting the labor to be accepted by God described in 2 Corinthians 5:9.

Galatians 2:16: Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Contradiction with Philippians 3:9

Stresses having righteousness through faith in Christ, not from personal effort or the law, which may contrast with the call to labor in 2 Corinthians 5:9.

Philippians 3:9: And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
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