Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Encourages trust in the Lord with all your heart and not relying on one's understanding, contrasting with being "tossed to and fro" by diverse teachings in Ephesians 4:14.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with James 1:6
Describes a "double-minded man" as unstable, differing from the call for maturity and stability against deceit in Ephesians 4:14.
James 1:6: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:15
Warns of false prophets in sheep's clothing, somewhat contradicting the idea of being misled as suggested in Ephesians 4:14, implying awareness is possible.
Matthew 7:15: Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:20
Encourages being not like children in understanding, somewhat differing from the idea of children swayed by teaching in Ephesians 4:14.
1 Corinthians 14:20: Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. [men: Gr. perfect, or, of a ripe age]
Paradox #1
Ephesians 4:14 talks about being steady in faith and not swayed by different teachings. Some people might see a contradiction because other parts of the Bible encourage believers to seek understanding and question teachings. This could seem inconsistent if questioning is seen as a way of being swayed. However, many see these ideas as complementary, where questioning leads to stronger faith.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse might arise from the emphasis on not being easily swayed by different teachings. This could conflict with the idea of being open-minded and willing to learn from diverse perspectives. If someone takes this verse to mean they should reject all new ideas, it might contradict the value of considering and understanding differing viewpoints.