Contradictions in Scripture: To Bless or to Condemn?
In this article, you will learn how Luke 6:28 contradicts Matthew 23:33, James 1:13, Deuteronomy 7:2, Psalm 139:21-22, Exodus 21:24 and Galatians 5:12. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible, as a sacred text, is often revered for its wisdom and guidance. However, even within its pages, there are intriguing contradictions that can prompt reflection and debate. A particularly compelling example centers on the contrast between expressions of love and calls for condemnation.
In Luke 6:28, Jesus' teaching emphasizes kindness and prayer for those who may wish us harm, highlighting an ideal of unconditional love and patience. This resonates with the message of spreading goodness, even toward adversaries. However, other scriptures present a different narrative.
In Matthew 23:33, the tone shifts dramatically as Jesus refers to the Pharisees as "serpents," contrasting with the directive to bless those who curse us. This rhetorical harshness reveals an aspect of righteous indignation and serves as a reminder of hypocrisy's danger. Similarly, in Galatians 5:12, Paul's intense wish against his opponents offers another example of a stark departure from Luke's endorsement of forgiveness.
James 1:13 speaks about the nature of temptation and God's role, presenting an indirect contradiction by implying a separation between evil actions and divine influence, thus challenging the notion of praying for those who mistreat.
Old Testament teachings add further complexity. Deuteronomy 7:2 commands utter destruction without mercy, while Psalm 139:21-22 encourages hatred toward perceived enemies of God. These passages reflect a historical context where survival and divine justice took precedence, opposing Luke's later message of compassion.
Lastly, Exodus 21:24's "eye for an eye" principle underscores a justice system based on retribution, which starkly contrasts with the call for prayer and blessings.
These contradictions can be likened to a family feud where different members hold differing views on how to deal with opposition—some advocate diplomacy and kindness, while others call for tougher measures. These varied teachings challenge us to reflect on how we reconcile conflicting values of justice and mercy. How do we, as individuals, choose to act amidst these differing biblical imperatives?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Luke 6:28 | Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. |
| 2. | Matthew 23:33 | [Ye] serpents, [ye] generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? |
| 3. | James 1:13 | Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: [evil: or, evils] |
| 4. | Deuteronomy 7:2 | And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them: |
| 5. | Psalm 139:21-22 | Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? |
| 6. | Exodus 21:24 | Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, |
| 7. | Galatians 5:12 | I would they were even cut off which trouble you. |