Contradiction with Exodus 3:19
God indicates that Pharaoh will not let the Israelites go unless compelled by a mighty hand, suggesting that simply meeting Pharaoh wouldn't be sufficient.
Exodus 3:19: And I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not by a mighty hand. [no...: or, but by strong hand]
Contradiction with Exodus 9:12
In this verse, the Lord hardens Pharaoh's heart, which contradicts the idea that Pharaoh will initially listen and heed the command to let the Israelites go as seen in Exodus 7:15.
Exodus 9:12: And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had spoken unto Moses.
Contradiction with Exodus 10:1
God once again hardens Pharaoh's heart, opposing the idea that simply meeting him as instructed would lead to any change in his stance.
Exodus 10:1: And the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh: for I have hardened his heart, and the heart of his servants, that I might shew these my signs before him:
Contradiction with Romans 9:18
This verse states that God has mercy on whom he wants and hardens whom he wants, which contradicts the expectation in Exodus 7:15 that approaching Pharaoh would make him comply.
Romans 9:18: Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction with Exodus 7:15 might relate to the sequence of events or the instructions given to Moses. Some interpretations could find inconsistencies in the timeline of the plagues on Egypt or the specific actions Moses is told to perform by God. However, interpretations can vary, and these inconsistencies might be seen differently depending on theological perspectives or scholarly debates.