Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
While Deuteronomy 7:21 implies destruction of enemies, Matthew 5:44 teaches to love and pray for them.
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 12:18-19
Deuteronomy 7:21 suggests conquest, whereas Romans 12:18-19 advises living peaceably and leaving vengeance to God.
Romans 12:18-19: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
Deuteronomy 7:21 involves victory over enemies, but Proverbs 24:17 counsels against rejoicing when enemies fall.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
This verse contradicts the encouragement of fear of enemies in Deuteronomy 7:21 by instructing to do 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,
Contradiction with 1 John 4:18
Deuteronomy 7:21 focuses on the power and fear of God, while 1 John 4:18 emphasizes perfect love casting out fear.
1 John 4:18: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Contradiction with James 3:17
The verse in Deuteronomy might imply aggression, but James 3:17 promotes peaceable wisdom.
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
Deuteronomy 7:21 speaks of God being present and powerful among the people, but some might see a contradiction when compared to instances where people feel abandoned or distant from God during difficult times. This apparent inconsistency raises questions about God's constant presence and support versus human experiences of suffering and doubt.
Paradox #2
Deuteronomy 7:21 emphasizes not being afraid because God is with the people. A possible doctrinal inconsistency might arise when contrasting this with instances where people are told to fear God or when they face challenges despite God's presence, leading to confusion about when to feel fear or assurance.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise from the depiction of God driving out nations before the Israelites. Archaeological and historical evidence does not clearly support a large-scale conquest and displacement of people in the manner described, which could be seen as conflicting with the biblical narrative.
Paradox #4
One potential contradiction in "Deuteronomy 7:21" could be the idea of promoting fear or destruction in the context of loving and compassionate teachings found elsewhere in the Bible. This might seem at odds with messages of love and forgiveness, creating tension between justice and mercy.