Contradiction with Exodus 20:21
Exodus 19:22 emphasizes holiness and separation of the priests while Exodus 20:21 describes Moses alone approaching God.
Exodus 20:21: And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God [was].
Contradiction with Numbers 16:3
Numbers 16:3 speaks of the congregation being holy, contradicting the exclusivity of priestly holiness in Exodus 19:22.
Numbers 16:3: And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, [Ye take] too much upon you, seeing all the congregation [are] holy, every one of them, and the LORD [is] among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD? [Ye take...: Heb. It is much for you]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:9
1 Peter 2:9 declares all believers as a royal priesthood, contrasting with the restricted priesthood in Exodus 19:22.
1 Peter 2:9: But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: [peculiar: or, purchased] [praises: or, virtues]
Contradiction with Hebrews 4:16
Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to approach God with confidence, unlike the restricted access in Exodus 19:22.
Hebrews 4:16: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Contradiction with Romans 5:1-2
Romans 5:1-2 speaks of peace and access to God through Jesus Christ, in contrast to the caution required of priests in Exodus 19:22.
Romans 5:1-2: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
Contradiction with John 3:16
John 3:16 emphasizes God's love for the whole world, implying broader access to God compared to the priestly constraints in Exodus 19:22.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:19-22
Hebrews 10:19-22 encourages believers to enter God's presence freely, unlike the restricted approach in Exodus 19:22.
Hebrews 10:19-22: Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, [boldness: or, liberty]
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this instruction could be seen in the requirement for even the priests, who are religious leaders, to undergo a process to make themselves pure before approaching God. Some may find it contradictory that those who are already chosen or set apart for religious duties are still not considered inherently pure or worthy, suggesting a conflict between their designated religious status and the need for purification.