Contradiction with Philippians 4:13
While 2 Timothy 2:1 emphasizes "being strong in grace" as from God, Philippians 4:13 speaks of drawing strength directly through Christ, highlighting different sources of spiritual strength.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Contradiction with James 4:6
2 Timothy 2:1 advises strength in grace, whereas James 4:6 points out receiving more grace through humility, showing a pathway to grace through weakness, not strength.
James 4:6: But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
2 Timothy 2:1 suggests individual strength in grace, but Proverbs 3:5 advises trusting entirely in the Lord and not on one's own understanding or strength.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25
2 Timothy 2:1 implies an attainable strength through grace, contrasting with 1 Corinthians 1:25 that proclaims the weakness of God is stronger than human strength, suggesting reliance solely on God’s superiority.
1 Corinthians 1:25: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:3
While 2 Timothy 2:1 encourages being strong, Matthew 5:3 suggests blessing in being "poor in spirit," indicating a different path to receiving the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:3: Blessed [are] the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9
2 Timothy 2:1 calls for personal strength in grace, yet 2 Corinthians 12:9 boasts in weakness as strength is made perfect in weakness through Christ’s power.
2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Contradiction with Isaiah 40:31
2 Timothy 2:1 focuses on strength through grace given to Timothy himself, while Isaiah 40:31 promises renewed strength to those who wait upon the Lord, suggesting a passive reception of strength.
Isaiah 40:31: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint. [renew: Heb. change]
Contradiction with Psalm 18:32
In contrast to personal empowerment in 2 Timothy 2:1, Psalm 18:32 attributes the ability to be strong solely to God’s direct action in girding with strength.
Psalm 18:32: [It is] God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.