Contradiction with Proverbs 16:7
When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him, which contrasts with Exodus 23:22's promise of action against enemies rather than peace.
Proverbs 16:7: When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, differing from the conditional promise of opposing enemies in Exodus 23:22.
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 12:20
Paul advises, If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink, which contrasts with the promise of fighting enemies in Exodus 23:22.
Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Contradiction with James 1:2-3
James encourages believers to count it all joy when facing trials, in contrast with the promise of victory over adversaries in Exodus 23:22.
James 1:2-3: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [temptations: or, trials]
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction could be the conditional nature of divine protection and favor. At times, the Bible emphasizes God's unconditional love and grace, yet this verse suggests that God's assistance is dependent on strict obedience. This might seem conflicting with the idea that God's love and protection are given freely, regardless of human actions.
Paradox #2
This verse might seem contradictory to the idea of unconditional love and forgiveness found in other parts of the Bible. It emphasizes obedience and consequences, which could be seen as conflicting with teachings that focus on forgiveness and mercy.
Paradox #3
Exodus 23:22 suggests that if you obey God, He will oppose your enemies. The potential contradiction here is that it implies God's support depends on obedience, which may conflict with the idea of unconditional love and forgiveness. This could seem inconsistent with teachings that emphasize God's love and mercy for everyone, regardless of their actions.