Contradiction with Isaiah 1:16
This verse emphasizes the need for individuals to wash and make themselves clean, suggesting a personal effort in purification, which contrasts with Ephesians 5:26, where purification is attributed to Christ's action.
Isaiah 1:16: Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;
Contradiction with Titus 3:5
This verse indicates that salvation and washing of regeneration are not by works of righteousness but by God's mercy, contrasting with the idea in Ephesians 5:26 that seems to suggest a process or action (washing of water by the word) performed by Christ.
Titus 3:5: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Contradiction with 1 John 1:9
This verse asserts that confession and God’s forgiveness purifies us from unrighteousness, implying an individual initiative, which can contrast with the passive role of the church being sanctified by Christ in Ephesians 5:26.
1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Contradiction with James 4:8
This verse calls sinners to cleanse their hands and purify their hearts, denoting personal responsibility for purification, which is different from the sanctification being done to the church by Christ in Ephesians 5:26.
James 4:8: Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.
Paradox #1
This verse could raise a question about the role of rituals and actions in the process of spiritual purification. Some might see a potential conflict between this idea and the view that faith alone is sufficient for spiritual cleansing and salvation, as emphasized in other parts of Christian theology.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or conflict might arise from the idea of using specific teachings or rituals as a means of purification, which could be seen as conflicting with the belief that moral behavior and a pure heart are more important than ceremonial actions. This could create tension between following religious practices and focusing on internal ethics and compassion.