Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Deuteronomy 20:15 talks about attacking cities, while Matthew 5:44 teaches to love your enemies.
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 20:15 involves waging war, whereas Romans 12:19 advises against seeking vengeance.
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 Isaiah 2:4
Deuteronomy 20:15 instructs on warfare, contrasting with Isaiah 2:4's vision of peace and the end of war.
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 Luke 6:27
Deuteronomy 20:15 discusses making war with cities, while Luke 6:27 encourages loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 20:15 could be seen as conflicting with the broader biblical teachings on love and compassion towards others, as it may appear to endorse harsh treatment towards certain groups outside of the Israelites. This can create tension with the idea that God’s character encompasses love and justice for all people.
Paradox #2
Deuteronomy 20:15 may raise questions or concerns about ethical or moral guidelines related to warfare and treatment of other nations. This could be seen as conflicting with themes of peace and love for all people found elsewhere in the Bible. Some people might perceive a contradiction between these instructions for war and the broader messages of compassion and mercy in other parts of the scripture.
Paradox #3
Deuteronomy 20:15 talks about rules for warfare that were specific to the time and culture of ancient Israel. A contradiction or conflict could arise when this verse is viewed against modern ethical standards and international laws regarding war, which emphasize peace and human rights. The ancient context of warfare and treatment of enemies may seem inconsistent with contemporary views on humanity and justice.
Paradox #4
This verse could raise moral questions because it involves the treatment of people in wartime, specifically the command to take certain actions against cities that are far away. This might seem inconsistent with ideas of compassion, mercy, and forgiveness that are also present in the Bible. The challenge comes from reconciling these harsh directives with the overall message of love and kindness found elsewhere in the scriptures.