Contradiction with Genesis 17:20
Ishmael is blessed and promised to become a great nation, implying special favor.
Genesis 17:20: And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.
Contradiction with Genesis 21:12
Isaac is referred through whom Abraham’s seed will be called, suggesting prioritized lineage.
Genesis 21:12: And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy seed be called.
Contradiction with Romans 9:6-7
Not all who are descended from Israel are Israel; not all Abraham’s children are his true descendants, complicating the notion of firstborn.
Romans 9:6-7: Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they [are] not all Israel, which are of Israel:
Contradiction with Hebrews 12:16-17
Esau traded his birthright, yet became a great nation as Edom, contrasting firstborn implications.
Hebrews 12:16-17: Lest there [be] any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
Paradox #1
Exodus 4:22 refers to Israel as God's "firstborn son." A possible contradiction arises when comparing this with the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as God's "only" or "one and only" son. This can create confusion about how both Israel and Jesus can hold a similar title. The resolution often involves understanding the terms within their different contexts: Israel as the firstborn in a metaphorical, national sense and Jesus as the unique, divine Son in a more literal or spiritual sense.
Paradox #2
The possible conflict with Exodus 4:22 might stem from the idea of God choosing Israel as His "firstborn son," which could be seen as inconsistent with the New Testament concept that all believers, regardless of ethnicity, are children of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This shift from a particular nation to a more inclusive spiritual family can appear contradictory.
Paradox #3
Exodus 4:22 has a potential historical inconsistency because it refers to Israel as God's "firstborn son." This can be puzzling when considering the context of the surrounding cultures and historical records. In ancient times, the concept of a "firstborn" had significant importance, often related to succession and inheritance. Historically, there's no evidence outside of the biblical narrative that supports the idea of Israel being regarded in this way by other contemporary societies or in ancient records. This unique designation may conflict with how nations and tribes were typically viewed during that time in history.