Contradiction with Psalm 103:12
This verse speaks of God removing transgressions as far as the east is from the west, indicating forgiveness and forgetting rather than separating the rebellious.
Psalm 103:12: As far as the east is from the west, [so] far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:34
Here, God promises to forgive iniquity and remember sin no more, contrasting with the idea of purging rebels.
Jeremiah 31:34: And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
Contradiction with Matthew 18:21-22
Jesus teaches about forgiving not just seven times, but seventy times seven, emphasizing repeated forgiveness contrary to separation.
Matthew 18:21-22: Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:9
The Lord's patience, not wanting anyone to perish, suggests an intent to save rather than purging rebellion.
2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Contradiction with Romans 5:8
God demonstrates love by Christ's sacrifice while we were still sinners, signifying an approach of reconciliation instead of separation.
Romans 5:8: But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Contradiction with Luke 15:4
The parable of the lost sheep illustrates seeking and saving the lost, rather than cutting them off.
Luke 15:4: What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
Contradiction with John 6:37
Jesus says He will not cast out anyone who comes to Him, which contrasts with purging and separating the rebellious.
John 6:37: All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 20:38 might appear to have a contradiction or inconsistency with the concept of God's unconditional love and forgiveness. The verse deals with the idea of judgment and separating those who do not follow God's commands. This can seem to conflict with the idea that God is always forgiving and accepting of everyone, regardless of their deeds.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 20:38 talks about God purging out rebels. A potential contradiction might arise when considering themes of mercy and forgiveness found elsewhere in the Bible. While some scriptures emphasize God's willingness to forgive and accept sinners who repent, this verse focuses on separation and judgment, which can seem inconsistent with the idea of unconditional grace.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this verse might come from the idea of separating or rejecting people who are seen as rebels or not following certain ways. This could be seen as inconsistent with other messages about forgiveness and acceptance. It might raise questions about fairness and compassion.