Contradictions and Paradoxes in Acts 16:37

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Acts 16:37 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Acts 16:37. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Luke, Paul is saying that it was unfair for them to be punished and put in jail without a fair trial because they are Roman citizens. He wants the leaders who did this to come and let them go free in front of everyone.

Acts 16:37: But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast [us] into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

While Acts 16:37 describes Paul asserting his rights, Matthew 5:39 advocates for non-resistance to evil and turning the other cheek.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Acts 16:37 shows Paul demanding justice, whereas Romans 12:19 instructs not to avenge ourselves but to leave it to God's wrath.

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 1 Peter 2:23

In contrast to Acts 16:37, where Paul confronts the authorities, 1 Peter 2:23 depicts Christ’s response to suffering without retaliation or complaint.

1 Peter 2:23: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed [himself] to him that judgeth righteously: [himself: or, his cause]

Contradiction with Luke 6:29

Acts 16:37 reflects Paul's insistence on his rights, but Luke 6:29 advises giving without resistance if someone takes from you.

Luke 6:29: And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:7

Acts 16:37 shows Paul challenging the injustice against him, whereas 1 Corinthians 6:7 suggests it is better to suffer wrong than to dispute.

1 Corinthians 6:7: Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather [suffer yourselves to] be defrauded?

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency could be seen in how Paul, who often preached forgiveness and turning the other cheek, asserts his legal rights in this situation. This might appear contradictory to the message of humility and enduring wrongs for the sake of faith, as he demands public acknowledgment of wrongdoing against him.

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