Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, contradicting the approach of offering peace only if a city accepts terms of surrender.
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 12:18
This verse advises living peaceably with all men, whereas Deuteronomy 20:10 offers peace only conditionally during warfare.
Romans 12:18: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Contradiction with James 3:17
This verse highlights that wisdom from above is peaceable, contrasting with the conditional peace offered in Deuteronomy 20:10.
James 3:17: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [partiality: or, wrangling]
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
Advises providing for one's enemy, suggesting a more direct act of kindness than the conditional peace offered in Deuteronomy 20:10.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 20:10 talks about approaching a city with an offer of peace before engaging in battle. A potential doctrinal conflict could arise with other parts of the Bible that emphasize mercy, forgiveness, and loving one's enemies, such as teachings in the New Testament. This could seem inconsistent with the idea of going to battle after offering peace. While the verse suggests a chance for peace, the context of war may seem at odds with more peaceful teachings elsewhere.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict regarding this Bible verse might relate to how it depicts warfare and the treatment of city inhabitants. Inconsistencies arise when comparing it with other passages advocating for peace or different approaches to warfare and enemy treatment found elsewhere in the Bible. These differences can lead to debates about the historical application and moral implications of these instructions.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this verse could be seen in the Bible's call for peace negotiations in one context, while other sections advocate for war or destruction. This might seem inconsistent when considering the overall messages about peace and love in other parts of religious texts.