Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Deuteronomy 13:17 advocates destruction as a response to idolatry, whereas Matthew 5:44 emphasizes loving and blessing those who oppose you.
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 Romans 12:19
While Deuteronomy 13:17 involves taking action against idolatry, Romans 12:19 advises against taking vengeance and leaving it to God's wrath.
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 Leviticus 19:18
Deuteronomy 13:17 emphasizes the destruction of any allure towards idolatry, contrasting with Leviticus 19:18, which instructs people to love their neighbors as themselves.
Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22
Deuteronomy 13:17 calls for eliminating idolatrous temptations, whereas Proverbs 25:21-22 suggests showing kindness to one's enemy, which may bring about repentance.
Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
Deuteronomy 13:17 implies punitive measures for idolatry, unlike Ezekiel 18:23, where God expresses no pleasure in the death of the wicked but rather that they turn from their ways.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 13:17 instructs the destruction of items associated with idolatry. A potential contradiction could arise with the New Testament’s message of forgiveness and redemption. Where the Old Testament often calls for strict punishment and destruction, the New Testament focuses on grace and the chance for repentance, which might seem inconsistent.
Paradox #2
This verse could be seen as morally contradictory because it promotes total destruction and banning the use of certain items. On one hand, this could be seen as a way to maintain purity and avoid corruption. On the other hand, it might conflict with values of mercy, forgiveness, or the idea that material goods are not inherently evil. Some might see a conflict between strict adherence to these rules and the concept of compassion or understanding.