Contradiction with Proverbs 22:6
This verse advises to train a child in the way they should go, suggesting guidance rather than punishment, contrasting with the punitive outcome in 2 Kings 2:23.
Proverbs 22:6: Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. [Train...: or, Catechise] [in...: Heb. in his way]
Contradiction with Matthew 19:13-14
Jesus promotes kindness to children, highlighting their importance in the kingdom of heaven, which contrasts with the fate of the children in 2 Kings 2:23.
Matthew 19:13-14: Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:32
This verse encourages kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness, contradicting the harsh punishment seen in 2 Kings 2:23.
Ephesians 4:32: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Contradiction with Colossians 3:21
It advises not to provoke children to anger so they don’t become discouraged, which conflicts with the harsh treatment of the youths in 2 Kings 2:23.
Colossians 3:21: Fathers, provoke not your children [to anger], lest they be discouraged.
Contradiction with James 3:17
This verse describes wisdom from above as gentle and open to reason, contrasting with the severe reaction in 2 Kings 2:23.
James 3:17: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [partiality: or, wrangling]
Paradox #1
This verse can raise questions about the nature of divine justice and mercy. It may seem harsh or difficult to reconcile with the broader biblical themes of forgiveness and compassion. This can lead to discussions on why such a severe consequence occurred and how it fits within the larger context of a loving and just God.
Paradox #2
The potential conflict could arise from the harsh reaction to what seems like a minor offense. It might appear inconsistent with teachings about forgiveness and compassion found in other parts of the Bible.
Paradox #3
The contradiction could be about the nature of punishment being too harsh and disproportionate for the offense, which seems inconsistent with other teachings that emphasize mercy and forgiveness.
Paradox #4
This verse can be seen as morally conflicting because it describes an event where children are punished severely for mocking a prophet. People may struggle with understanding why such a harsh consequence is allowed or justified for what seems like minor misbehavior. This can create a tension between the ideas of mercy and justice.