Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse, "Thou shalt not kill," contradicts with 2 Kings 23:20 because it prohibits killing, yet 2 Kings 23:20 describes the killing of priests.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to "love your enemies" which contradicts with the actions of killing enemies in 2 Kings 23:20.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Advises believers to not avenge themselves, contrary to the retribution described in 2 Kings 23:20.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Advocates for loving and doing good to enemies, which is in contrast to the slaying of priests in 2 Kings 23:20.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
This verse encourages feeding and giving drink to one's enemy, opposing the actions in 2 Kings 23:20.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Paradox #1
The potential theological conflict in this verse arises from the actions described, which involve violence and destruction in the context of religious reform. This can be seen as inconsistent with other biblical teachings that emphasize peace, forgiveness, and the sanctity of life. Some readers might struggle with reconciling the use of violent means to achieve religious or moral ends, questioning how this aligns with the broader message of love and compassion found elsewhere in the Bible.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict might arise from the act of violence described in the verse. It could be seen as conflicting with messages in the Bible that promote love, forgiveness, and peace, creating a tension between the actions taken and the broader moral teachings of Christianity.