Contradiction with Romans 14:14
Romans 14:14 suggests that nothing is unclean in itself, which contradicts Colossians 2:20's warning against submitting to the world's rules and regulations, which could include distinctions between clean and unclean.
Romans 14:14: I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean. [unclean: Gr. common]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:17-18
Matthew 5:17-18 asserts that Jesus did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, suggesting continuity with the Law, whereas Colossians 2:20 implies separation from worldly rules and regulations, including those of the Law.
Matthew 5:17-18: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
Contradiction with Acts 21:20-24
Acts 21:20-24 describes the adherence to certain customs and laws by the early Christians, contrasting with Colossians 2:20's message about not being subject to human ordinances after dying with Christ.
Acts 21:20-24: And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:
Contradiction with Galatians 5:1-3
Galatians 5:1-3 warns against returning to the yoke of slavery through the Law, suggesting a necessity to keep it if followed, contradicting Colossians 2:20's indication that believers are free from such principles.
Galatians 5:1-3: Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Paradox #1
Colossians 2:20 might seem contradictory if it is interpreted as rejecting all religious practices or rules, while other parts of the Bible emphasize the importance of certain laws and commandments. This could create an inconsistency regarding which rules should be followed. However, the context of the verse generally clarifies this issue.
Paradox #2
Colossians 2:20 suggests that believers should not be bound by human rules since they have died with Christ. A possible contradiction might arise with other parts of the Bible that emphasize following certain laws or commandments. This could appear inconsistent if not understood in the context of differentiating between human traditions and God's commands.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency with Colossians 2:20 may arise from the idea of not following human rules and traditions while other parts of the Bible emphasize the importance of following certain laws and commandments. This could be confusing for believers trying to understand which rules to prioritize or follow.