Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Exodus 22:24 suggests divine wrath and destruction, while Matthew 5:44 promotes loving one's enemies and praying for those who persecute you.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Exodus 22:24 depicts vengeance by God, whereas Romans 12:19 advises leaving vengeance to God and not seeking personal revenge.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
Exodus 22:24 implies God takes pleasure in executing wrath, while Ezekiel 18:23 states God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires repentance.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Contradiction with James 2:13
Exodus 22:24 shows God's severe judgment, contrasting James 2:13 which emphasizes mercy over judgment.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Contradiction with 1 John 4:8
Exodus 22:24 reflects on God's anger, while 1 John 4:8 defines God primarily as love.
1 John 4:8: He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
Paradox #1
Exodus 22:24 can be seen as presenting a contradiction or inconsistency with the idea of a compassionate and forgiving God. This verse discusses the concept of divine retribution, which may seem harsh or unforgiving compared to other teachings in the Bible about mercy and forgiveness, such as those found in the New Testament that emphasize love and turning the other cheek. This apparent inconsistency could create tension for those trying to reconcile the justice of God with his mercy and love.
Paradox #2
Exodus 22:24 contains expressions of divine judgment and consequences for wrongdoing. Some people might see a contradiction in the idea of a loving and forgiving God expressing anger and issuing stern punishments. This tension between divine justice and mercy can lead to differing interpretations about God's nature and how justice is applied, creating discussions about consistency within biblical teachings.
Paradox #3
Exodus 22:24 contains language about expressing strong anger or taking severe action against wrongdoers. The contradiction or conflict here could be the difference between this act of harsh justice or vengeance and other biblical teachings about forgiveness, mercy, and loving one's enemies. It creates tension between justice and compassion.