Contradiction with James 2:24
This verse emphasizes that a person is justified by works, and not by faith only, which contrasts with the idea that salvation is not of works as stated in Ephesians 2:9.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with Romans 2:6
This verse states that God "will render to every man according to his deeds," suggesting that works play a part in judgment, which contrasts with the notion that salvation is not based on works.
Romans 2:6: Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
This verse indicates that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven, implying a necessity for works, which contradicts Ephesians 2:9's message that salvation is not of works.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with Philippians 2:12
This verse advises believers to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling," suggesting an active role in one's salvation process, contradicting the emphasis in Ephesians 2:9 that it is not of works.
Philippians 2:12: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 1:17
This verse states that God judges each person impartially according to their deeds, suggesting the importance of works in judgment, which conflicts with the message in Ephesians 2:9.
1 Peter 1:17: And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:
Contradiction with Galatians 6:7-8
These verses state that a man reaps what he sows, implying that works have consequences, seemingly contradicting the notion that salvation is not dependent on works as Ephesians 2:9 suggests.
Galatians 6:7-8: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
Contradiction with Revelation 22:12
This verse indicates that Jesus will reward each person according to what they have done, highlighting works' importance, contrasting with the idea in Ephesians 2:9.
Revelation 22:12: And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Paradox #1
Ephesians 2:9 can be seen as contradicting the idea that people are saved by their actions or good deeds. Some might argue this contradicts other parts of the Bible that emphasize the importance of following God's commandments and doing good works. This creates a tension between faith and works in the path to salvation.
Paradox #2
Ephesians 2:9 speaks to salvation not being a result of works. This might seem to contradict other Bible passages that emphasize the importance of doing good works, like in James 2:24, which stresses that faith without works is dead. This can create a perception of inconsistency between faith and actions in the path to salvation. However, many theologians interpret these verses together to mean that while salvation is a gift not earned by deeds, genuine faith naturally leads to good works.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency related to the concept in Ephesians 2:9 could be with the idea of faith and works. Some interpretations of the Bible emphasize salvation through faith alone, while others stress the importance of good deeds. This has led to debates within Christian theology about the roles of faith and works in achieving salvation.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in Ephesians 2:9 could involve the tension between faith and works. Some might see a contradiction between emphasizing faith alone for salvation and the importance of good deeds in other parts of the Bible. This could lead to confusion about the role of actions versus belief in one's spiritual life.