Contradiction with Genesis 2:24
This verse emphasizes the union of a man and his wife as one flesh, focusing on the physical and earthly relationship, which may contrast with Ephesians 5:32's mystical or spiritual interpretation.
Genesis 2:24: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:6
Highlights the unity and inseparability of marriage as a human bond, as opposed to the profound mystery aspect of Christ and the church suggested in Ephesians 5:32.
Matthew 19:6: Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Contradiction with Mark 10:8
Similar to Genesis 2:24, it focuses on the earthly conception of marriage, which might contrast with the spiritual or allegorical implication in Ephesians 5:32.
Mark 10:8: And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
These verses advise on marital separation and reconciliation, emphasizing practical marital concerns, potentially contrasting the "great mystery" spiritual parallel in Ephesians 5:32.
1 Corinthians 7:10-11: And unto the married I command, [yet] not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from [her] husband:
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 2:13-14
Refers to the creation order and the fall, which focuses on human relationships and roles, and can conflict with the spiritual analogy of marriage as Christ and the church in Ephesians 5:32.
1 Timothy 2:13-14: For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
Paradox #1
Ephesians 5:32 discusses the profound mystery of the relationship between Christ and the church. Some might see a theological conflict in how marriage is both a sacred, spiritual symbol and a human, social institution. The challenge lies in balancing the spiritual metaphor with practical, everyday marital interactions without diminishing either aspect.