Contradiction with Exodus 32:14
This verse indicates that the Lord repented of the evil He thought to do unto His people, implying a forgiving attitude, contrary to God’s anger over the calf in Deuteronomy 9:16.
Exodus 32:14: And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 19:18
This verse states that there were seven thousand in Israel who had not bowed to Baal, suggesting faithfulness among the people, whereas Deuteronomy 9:16 mentions them turning away from God.
1 Kings 19:18: Yet I have left [me] seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him. [I have...: or, I will leave]
Contradiction with Psalm 86:15
This verse reflects God's merciful and gracious nature, which seems in contrast to the anger displayed in Deuteronomy 9:16.
Psalm 86:15: But thou, O Lord, [art] a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:18
God invites reasoning and offers forgiveness, seemingly contradicting the anger and condemnation over the idol-making incident in Deuteronomy 9:16.
Isaiah 1:18: Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Contradiction with Micah 7:18
Highlights God's delight in showing mercy, opposing the wrath shown in Deuteronomy 9:16 for the people's sin.
Micah 7:18: Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.
Contradiction with James 1:17
States that God does not change or vary, in contrast to His changing and passionate response in Deuteronomy 9:16 when the people sinned.
James 1:17: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 9:16 describes the Israelites making and worshiping a golden calf, which contradicts the commandment against idolatry given earlier in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3-5). This inconsistency highlights the struggle of the Israelites to remain faithful to God's commands despite direct instructions against idol worship.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in this verse could be the challenge of understanding how people who witnessed great miracles and received direct guidance could still turn away and act against those teachings. It raises questions about human nature, faithfulness, and the difficulties of maintaining belief and obedience, even with clear evidence.