Contradiction with Isaiah 42:8
This verse highlights that God will not share His glory with another, contrasting with the man of sin in 2 Thessalonians 2:4 who exalts himself as God.
Isaiah 42:8: I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
Contradiction with Matthew 4:10
It emphasizes worshiping only God, which is a direct contradiction to the claim of divinity posed by the man of sin in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
Matthew 4:10: Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
This verse commands having no other gods before the true God, opposing the self-exaltation depicted in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 6:14
Warns against following other gods, standing against the man of sin's claim of divinity in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
Deuteronomy 6:14: Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which [are] round about you;
Contradiction with Psalm 82:6-7
Although it mentions "gods," it highlights their mortality, contradicting the self-elevation by the man of sin in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
Psalm 82:6-7: I have said, Ye [are] gods; and all of you [are] children of the most High.
Contradiction with John 10:34-36
Jesus cites humans as "gods" but emphasizes their distinction from the true God, contrasting the self-exaltation found in 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
John 10:34-36: Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?
Paradox #1
2 Thessalonians 2:4 might seem to contradict the understanding of God's sovereignty and authority over all things. It describes someone setting themselves up against God, which some could interpret as conflicting with the belief that no one can challenge God's supreme power. However, this verse is generally understood as describing a temporary situation that ultimately aligns with God's plan, so many do not see it as a contradiction.
Paradox #2
This verse talks about someone who sets themselves up in God's temple, claiming to be God. A contradiction could arise because some believe this prophecy was fulfilled in past events, while others see it as a future event. This difference in interpretation can lead to inconsistencies in understanding what the verse truly refers to.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could arise from questioning the idea of someone setting themselves up as above God. If God's authority is seen as ultimate and just, then any claim of superiority might be viewed as challenging divine moral order. This perception could create tension between respecting religious teachings and understanding human authority or ego.