Contradiction with Proverbs 13:4
This verse contradicts by implying that diligent work leads to abundance, whereas Acts 20:34 emphasizes Paul's own labor to support himself.
Proverbs 13:4: The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:25
This verse contradicts by encouraging reliance on God for provision, contrary to Paul's example of self-reliance in Acts 20:34.
Matthew 6:25: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Contradiction with Luke 12:22-24
This verse advises against worrying about physical needs, suggesting trust in divine provision, while Acts 20:34 shows Paul's focus on self-provision through labor.
Luke 12:22-24: And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:8
This verse contradicts by showing Paul received support from other churches, unlike in Acts 20:34 where he highlights his own labor for financial needs.
2 Corinthians 11:8: I robbed other churches, taking wages [of them], to do you service.
Paradox #1
Acts 20:34 is about working hard to support oneself and others. The potential contradiction could be that while it promotes self-reliance, it might conflict with the idea that faith alone or reliance on divine help is sufficient, as emphasized in other parts of the Bible. This could create tension between the values of self-effort and faith-dependent reliance on God.