Contradiction with Numbers 15:32-36
This passage describes a man being stoned to death for breaking the Sabbath, which supports the severe consequence mentioned in Exodus 31:14 rather than contradicting it.
Numbers 15:32-36: And while the children of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man that gathered sticks upon the sabbath day.
Contradiction with Mark 2:27
This verse suggests the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, implying a more lenient view than the strict punishment in Exodus 31:14.
Mark 2:27: And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:
Contradiction with Matthew 12:1-8
Jesus speaks of mercy not sacrifice, and his disciples pick grain on the Sabbath without punishment, contrasting with the death penalty in Exodus 31:14.
Matthew 12:1-8: At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.
Contradiction with Romans 14:5
Each person regards one day above another or all days alike, indicating personal convictions over strict observance, which challenges the absolute rule of Exodus 31:14.
Romans 14:5: One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day [alike]. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. [fully persuaded: or, fully assured]
Contradiction with Colossians 2:16
Paul instructs not to let anyone judge in regard to Sabbath days, which contrasts with the rigid enforcement of Sabbath laws in Exodus 31:14.
Colossians 2:16: Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath [days]: [in meat...: or, for eating and drinking] [respect: or, part]
Paradox #1
Exodus 31:14 could be seen as conflicting with the idea of God's mercy and forgiveness. It emphasizes strict punishment for breaking the Sabbath, which might appear harsh compared to other teachings about forgiveness found in the Bible. Some people may struggle to reconcile the demand for such severe punishment with the understanding of a compassionate and forgiving God.
Paradox #2
Exodus 31:14 emphasizes strict rules about keeping the Sabbath, including severe consequences for not doing so. One potential contradiction is with other parts of the Bible where Jesus, in the New Testament, emphasizes mercy and challenges strict Sabbath rules (e.g., healing on the Sabbath). This can create a perceived inconsistency between the Old Testament's emphasis on strict observance and the New Testament's focus on mercy and flexibility.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency could be related to the strict punishment mentioned for breaking the Sabbath, which might contrast with other parts of the Bible that emphasize mercy and forgiveness. Additionally, it might conflict with modern-day interpretations of Sabbath observance that are less severe.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction in Exodus 31:14 could relate to the idea of enforcing rest on a specific day (the Sabbath) with severe penalties, which conflicts with scientific understanding of rest and work. Science shows that while rest is important, it does not need to be tied to a strict schedule or penalty system, as individual needs can vary greatly. Scientists emphasize flexibility and personal health balance instead.
Paradox #5
Exodus 31:14 presents a moral conflict in that it prescribes a severe punishment for breaking the Sabbath, which might seem harsh and unforgiving. This can appear inconsistent with other biblical teachings that emphasize mercy, forgiveness, and the value of human life. Balancing strict adherence to law with compassion can create a moral dilemma.