Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Deuteronomy 20:1 encourages not to fear in battle, while Matthew 5:44 advises to love enemies and pray for them, promoting peace rather than warfare.
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
Deuteronomy 20:1 suggests being unafraid in battle, whereas Romans 12:19 urges believers not to take revenge but leave room for 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 Proverbs 25:21-22
While Deuteronomy 20:1 prepares for conflict, Proverbs 25:21-22 encourages feeding and helping your enemy, advocating for kindness over confrontation.
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 Isaiah 2:4
Deuteronomy 20:1 is about going to battle with confidence, but Isaiah 2:4 envisions a time when nations will no longer engage in war, aspiring for peace.
Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Contradiction with Ephesians 6:12
Deuteronomy 20:1 speaks of physical warfare, whereas Ephesians 6:12 emphasizes a spiritual battle, suggesting the true struggle is not against flesh and blood.
Ephesians 6:12: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]. [flesh...: Gr. blood and flesh] [spiritual...: or, wicked spirits] [high: or, heavenly]
Paradox #1
The verse suggests reliance on God for protection in battle, which might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize peace and non-violence. For example, teachings of Jesus in the New Testament advocate for turning the other cheek and loving enemies, which could conflict with the idea of going into battle.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction might be about the idea of going into battle with the promise of divine support, which could seem to encourage violence or war. This could be in conflict with other teachings in the Bible that promote peace, love, and forgiveness.