Contradiction with Acts 10:34
Acts 9:5 describes Jesus speaking directly to Saul, whereas Acts 10:34 states that God shows no partiality, implying direct revelations are not exclusive to specific individuals.
Acts 10:34: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25
Acts 9:5 depicts Jesus' divine intervention as the ultimate authority, while 1 Corinthians 1:25 suggests that what might seem foolish in God's actions is wiser than human wisdom, creating tension on understanding divine logic.
1 Corinthians 1:25: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
Contradiction with John 3:16
Acts 9:5 is a specific encounter with Saul, focusing on his persecution, while John 3:16 emphasizes the universal nature of salvation through belief in Christ.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Acts 9:5 involves Jesus confronting Saul, who is persecuting his followers, whereas Matthew 5:44 tells believers to love their enemies, suggesting a different approach to dealing with persecutors.
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 2 Corinthians 12:9
Acts 9:5 involves a miraculous conversion through confrontation, while 2 Corinthians 12:9 emphasizes strength through acceptance of weakness rather than a dramatic transformative experience.
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.
Paradox #1
The potential issue with Acts 9:5 is that some older manuscripts do not include the phrase, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads," which appears in later translations. This inconsistency may raise questions about the original text's accuracy. However, it doesn't necessarily present a contradiction, as the phrase's inclusion or exclusion does not change the overall message of the passage.