Contradiction with Matthew 15:26
Matthew 15:26 presents a notion where Jesus refers to Gentiles in a metaphor that suggests exclusion, potentially contradicting the inclusivity and protection of the stranger mentioned in Deuteronomy 10:18.
Matthew 15:26: But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast [it] to dogs.
Contradiction with Acts 10:34
This verse suggests God does not show favoritism, potentially contradicting the special attention given to orphans and widows in Deuteronomy 10:18.
Acts 10:34: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
Contradiction with Isaiah 40:17
States that the nations are as nothing before God, contrasting with the care and justice that Deuteronomy 10:18 implies God shows to all, including strangers outside of Israel.
Isaiah 40:17: All nations before him [are] as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.
Contradiction with Romans 9:13
Quotes, "Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated," suggesting a preferential treatment that contradicts the impartial justice emphasized in Deuteronomy 10:18.
Romans 9:13: As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
Paradox #1
The verse describes God's care for orphans, widows, and foreigners, showing God's compassion and justice. Some may see a contradiction if they compare this with other parts of the Bible where God's people are instructed to take harsh actions against certain groups or nations. This could seem inconsistent with the image of a compassionate and just God. However, many theologians explain these differences in context or as part of a broader divine plan. Understanding these nuances can be complex.
Paradox #2
Some people notice a contradiction because this verse describes God as caring for orphans and widows, which seems inconsistent with other parts of the Old Testament where God's actions or commands appear harsh or even violent towards certain groups of people. This discrepancy can be puzzling for those trying to reconcile images of a loving and compassionate God with accounts of divine wrath or punishment elsewhere in scripture.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency might occur when considering other parts of the Bible that depict violence or disregard for certain groups. While this verse highlights justice and care for the vulnerable, such as orphans and widows, other parts of the scripture involve actions or laws that seem harsh towards some communities. The conflict arises when trying to reconcile these caring ideals with stories or commands that appear more severe.