Acts 22:1 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Luke, the person talking is trying to get everyone to listen to his side of the story. He is asking the people, like his friends and fathers, to pay attention to what he has to say.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Whereas Acts 22:1 has Paul defending himself before his accusers, Matthew 5:44 emphasizes loving enemies and blessing those who curse you.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9

In Acts 22:1, Paul is presenting a defense, but 1 Peter 3:9 advises not to render evil for evil or railing for railing, but to bless instead.

1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Contradiction with Proverbs 26:4

Acts 22:1 shows Paul responding to an accusation, while Proverbs 26:4 suggests not responding to a fool according to his folly.

Proverbs 26:4: Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

Contradiction with James 1:19

Where Acts 22:1 involves Paul speaking in his defense, James 1:19 advises being swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath.

James 1:19: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Contradiction with Matthew 10:19

Acts 22:1 features Paul defending himself by his own words, while Matthew 10:19 instructs not to premeditate on defense when delivered up, as God will provide the words.

Matthew 10:19: But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.

Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1

Acts 22:1 reflects Paul addressing his opponents, while Proverbs 15:1 highlights the wisdom of a soft answer turning away wrath instead of a harsh response.

Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Contradiction with Exodus 14:14

In contrast to Paul's active defense in Acts 22:1, Exodus 14:14 counsels that the Lord shall fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.

Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.