Contradiction with 1 John 3:8
While 2 Thessalonians 2:7 speaks of the mystery of iniquity already at work, 1 John 3:8 suggests that the devil's works are destroyed by Christ, implying the power of evil should be diminishing, not persisting.
1 John 3:8: He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
Contradiction with Revelation 20:2
This verse states that the devil is bound for a thousand years, which seems to contradict the idea in 2 Thessalonians 2:7 of lawlessness being at work and not yet restrained.
Revelation 20:2: And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,
Contradiction with Romans 16:20
This verse speaks about God soon crushing Satan under believers' feet, which contrasts with the ongoing work of the mystery of lawlessness in 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
Romans 16:20: And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen. [bruise: or, tread]
Contradiction with Colossians 2:15
Paul writes that Christ has already disarmed powers and authorities, suggesting a triumph over evil that contrasts with the ongoing iniquity described in 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
Colossians 2:15: [And] having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. [in it: or, in himself]
Contradiction with Matthew 28:18
Jesus claims all authority in heaven and on earth, suggesting his rule contradicts the idea of an unchecked mystery of iniquity as described in 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
Matthew 28:18: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Paradox #1
The verse from 2 Thessalonians 2:7 mentions the "mystery of lawlessness" being at work and something holding it back. Some people see a contradiction or inconsistency because it's unclear who or what is restraining it. Different interpretations can lead to confusion or disagreement about the role of evil and divine intervention, which might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that discuss God's control over evil forces.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in this verse might arise from the idea of divine intervention and free will. Some might see a contradiction in how God's plan allows for evil or lawlessness to exist temporarily before being restrained. This could be confusing when considering the balance between God's control and human responsibility.