Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse commands to love your enemies and bless those that curse you, in contrast to the complete destruction commanded in Deuteronomy.
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 Matthew 5:9
This verse blesses peacemakers, which contradicts the directive in Deuteronomy to destroy the nations.
Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Contradiction with Romans 12:20
Offering kindness to enemies contradicts the command to annihilate them.
Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
Advising to feed and give drink to your enemy, in contrast to Deuteronomy's call for destruction.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Commands to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you, opposing the directive to destroy.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Exodus 23:4-5
Instructs returning your enemy's lost animals instead of destroying them, highlighting a more compassionate approach.
Exodus 23:4-5: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
Contradiction with Romans 12:18
Advises living peaceably with all men, conflicting with the directive for complete destruction in Deuteronomy.
Romans 12:18: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:15
Instructs to not render evil for evil, which contrasts with the destruction urged in Deuteronomy.
1 Thessalonians 5:15: See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
Cautions against rejoicing when your enemy falls, opposing the annihilation in Deuteronomy.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with James 3:17
Describes wisdom as peaceable and gentle, diverging from the violent actions commanded in Deuteronomy.
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]
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction because the verse seems to suggest that certain people should be completely destroyed. However, other parts of the Bible emphasize love, mercy, and forgiveness. This can seem inconsistent with a message of destruction.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or inconsistency with Deuteronomy 20:18 could arise from the Bible's teachings on love and compassion versus the command for destruction of certain groups. While some parts of the Bible emphasize love for others and forgiveness, this verse can seem in conflict with those teachings by advocating for actions that are harsh and uncompassionate.
Paradox #3
Deuteronomy 20:18 involves instructions related to the conquest of certain nations. The contradiction or conflict could revolve around its ethical implications, as this directive stands in contrast to more peaceful teachings or modern values regarding warfare and treatment of other peoples. There might also be inconsistencies in how different religious texts or traditions interpret these instructions in light of contemporary moral standards.
Paradox #4
One possible contradiction in that verse is the idea of promoting peace and love for all people versus the directive to eliminate certain groups. It raises questions about fairness and compassion towards others who are different.