Contradiction with Exodus 34:6-7
This verse describes God's merciful nature, which seems to contradict the strict punishment for not keeping His name holy in Exodus 20:7.
Exodus 34:6-7: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Contradiction with Matthew 12:31
This verse suggests that blasphemy can be forgiven, which contrasts with the notion of not being held guiltless for using God's name in vain.
Matthew 12:31: Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy [against] the [Holy] Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
Contradiction with Psalm 145:8
It emphasizes God's graciousness and compassion, appearing to be more lenient than the warning in Exodus 20:7.
Psalm 145:8: The LORD [is] gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. [of great...: Heb. great in mercy]
Contradiction with James 5:12
Advises not to swear at all, which can be seen as more restrictive compared to only prohibiting vain usage in Exodus 20:7.
James 5:12: But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 1:13
Paul discusses receiving mercy for his blasphemy, suggesting forgiveness contrary to the unforgiving stance in Exodus 20:7.
1 Timothy 1:13: Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction with Exodus 20:7 arises when considering verses that depict God as showing anger or punishment towards those who misuse His name or do not honor it. Some might argue that these portrayals of God’s reactions contradict the message of grace and forgiveness found elsewhere in the Bible. However, these apparent inconsistencies can often be reconciled by understanding the broader context of the scriptures.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency is that the commandment forbids taking the Lord's name in vain, but throughout history and within the Bible itself, there are instances where people use the name of God in various contexts, including oaths, wars, and judgments, sometimes seemingly contradicting the strict interpretation of the commandment. This has led to debates over what exactly constitutes taking the name in vain.
Paradox #3
Exodus 20:7 might have a contradiction or inconsistency if it is interpreted in different ways by different people. Some might see it as a command about speaking respectfully, while others might view it strictly as avoiding misuse of sacred terms. This can lead to conflict because people might disagree on what it means to honor or misuse something considered holy, resulting in varying practices and beliefs.