Contradiction with Matthew 5:7
Emphasizes mercy, while Deuteronomy 13:15 advocates destruction.
Matthew 5:7: Blessed [are] the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Teaches to love your enemies, contrasting with the command to smite in Deuteronomy 13:15.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Advises against taking vengeance, whereas Deuteronomy 13:15 calls for action against a city.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with 1 John 4:8
States that God is love, conflicting with the wrathful directive of Deuteronomy 13:15.
1 John 4:8: He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Instructs to pray for those who persecute you, opposite of annihilating them as in Deuteronomy 13:15.
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 James 2:13
Highlights mercy triumphing over judgment, contrary to the destruction commanded in Deuteronomy 13:15.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
Commands not to kill, whereas Deuteronomy 13:15 insists on mass destruction.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 13:15 could pose a theological conflict related to the command to destroy an entire city and its inhabitants if they have been led astray to serve other gods. This might seem inconsistent with the teachings of love, forgiveness, and mercy found in other parts of the Bible, especially in the New Testament. The directive could be viewed as conflicting with the concept of a loving and merciful God.
Paradox #2
Deuteronomy 13:15 talks about destroying a city and its inhabitants if they have turned away from God's teachings to follow other gods. A potential contradiction might be with teachings of mercy and forgiveness found in parts of the New Testament, such as the message of loving your enemies and forgiving others. This could create tension between the ideas of strict justice versus mercy and redemption.
Paradox #3
Deuteronomy 13:15 talks about completely destroying a city and its inhabitants if they are found worshiping other gods. The contradiction or conflict here is that this command seems to clash with other biblical teachings that emphasize love, mercy, and forgiveness. Additionally, archaeological and historical evidence doesn't fully support the occurrence of such events as commanded in the passage.
Paradox #4
This verse could be seen as conflicting with the principle of forgiveness and mercy, which are also emphasized in many parts of the Bible. It may seem harsh or difficult to reconcile with the values of love and compassion.