Contradiction with Numbers 14:33
This verse mentions that the Israelites would bear their sins for 40 years in the wilderness, whereas Ezekiel 20:13 points out their rebellion without specifically attributing it to such a prolonged consequence.
Numbers 14:33: And your children shall wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your whoredoms, until your carcases be wasted in the wilderness. [wander: or, feed]
Contradiction with Nehemiah 9:19
This verse highlights God's sustained guidance and provision in the wilderness, contradicting Ezekiel 20:13's notion of rejection or wrath.
Nehemiah 9:19: Yet thou in thy manifold mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness: the pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day, to lead them in the way; neither the pillar of fire by night, to shew them light, and the way wherein they should go.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 8:2
This verse speaks of God's purpose in leading Israel through the wilderness to humble and test them, suggesting a divine plan rather than abandonment as implied in Ezekiel 20:13.
Deuteronomy 8:2: And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, [and] to prove thee, to know what [was] in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.
Contradiction with Psalm 106:44-45
These verses describe God's repeated mercy and remembrance of His covenant, which contrasts with the rejection highlighted in Ezekiel 20:13.
Psalm 106:44-45: Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry:
Contradiction with Exodus 16:15
Here, God provides manna, showing care and provision, which contradicts the notion of God withdrawing support in Ezekiel 20:13.
Exodus 16:15: And when the children of Israel saw [it], they said one to another, It [is] manna: for they wist not what it [was]. And Moses said unto them, This [is] the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat. [It is...: or, What is this? or, It is a portion]
Contradiction with Psalm 78:38-39
These verses depict God as forgiving and not destroying the people, contrary to the description of divine anger in Ezekiel 20:13.
Psalm 78:38-39: But he, [being] full of compassion, forgave [their] iniquity, and destroyed [them] not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:3
This verse emphasizes God's everlasting love for Israel, which seems inconsistent with the impression of rejection in Ezekiel 20:13.
Jeremiah 31:3: The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. [of...: Heb. from afar] [with lovingkindness...: have I extended lovingkindness unto thee]
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 20:13 might be seen as having a theological inconsistency because it speaks about the Israelites rebelling against God's laws and not following His decrees, despite being delivered from Egypt. This concept can be confusing when considering God's covenant with Israel and His promise to be their God. It raises questions about the balance between God's justice in punishing rebellion and His mercy in keeping His promises. However, this tension is often resolved in theology by understanding it within the broader narrative of scripture, where God's justice and mercy are both essential attributes.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 20:13 might seem to contradict other parts of the Bible regarding the faithfulness and goodness of God toward the Israelites. In this verse, there is an implication of God's anger and decision to abandon the Israelites due to their disobedience. However, elsewhere in the Bible, God is often portrayed as forgiving and patient with them. This could create a perceived inconsistency in understanding God's character and actions.
Paradox #3
Ezekiel 20:13 talks about the Israelites rebelling against God in the desert, not following His rules, and disrespecting His commands. The potential contradiction arises because other parts of the Bible, like Exodus, mention the Israelites following God’s commands at certain times, such as building the Tabernacle and following instructions for the Passover. This could be seen as inconsistent with the blanket statement of rebellion in Ezekiel.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in Ezekiel 20:13 could stem from the idea of God being loving and forgiving, yet also punishing the people for their disobedience. This can seem inconsistent with the message of divine mercy because it shows a side of God that is willing to enact harsh consequences for not following commands, which can be viewed as conflicting with the concept of unconditional love.