Colossians 2:23 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Paul, this verse means that some rules might seem smart because they tell people to be very strict with their bodies and act humble, but they don't really help people become better or closer to God. They just look good on the outside, but they don’t really make the inside special or happy.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:17

This verse suggests the importance of fulfilling the law, in contrast to Colossians 2:23, which implies criticism of adhering to human commandments and doctrines.

Matthew 5:17: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Contradiction with Matthew 15:9

Here, worship based on human commandments is deemed vain, contradicting Colossians 2:23's mention of doctrines and commandments of men.

Matthew 15:9: But in vain they do worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.

Contradiction with 1 Timothy 4:8

This verse highlights the limited value of bodily exercise, while Colossians 2:23 speaks to treating the body harshly as a show of wisdom.

1 Timothy 4:8: For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. [little: or, for a little time]

Contradiction with Titus 1:14

Advises not to heed to human commandments, contradicting the actions depicted in Colossians 2:23.

Titus 1:14: Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.

Contradiction with Galatians 5:1

Calls for freedom from the law, opposing the human regulations criticized in Colossians 2:23.

Galatians 5:1: 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 2:23 discusses practices that appear wise but lack real value in restraining indulgence. The potential theological conflict is that some may see this as contradicting the idea that discipline or rules can aid in spiritual growth. It raises questions about the role of human efforts versus divine grace in achieving spiritual maturity.

Paradox #2

This verse discusses practices that might look wise because they involve strict rules, but they aren't very helpful in controlling sinful desires. The contradiction could be seen in promoting rules that don't actually help with genuine spiritual growth, possibly leading to the inconsistency of valuing the appearance of holiness over true transformation.