Contradiction with Matthew 11:28
Ezekiel 22:20 speaks of God's wrath and judgment, whereas Matthew 11:28 offers rest and solace for the weary, highlighting God's mercy.
Matthew 11:28: Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Contradiction with James 5:11
James 5:11 emphasizes the compassion and mercy of the Lord, which contrasts with the imagery of judgment in Ezekiel 22:20.
James 5:11: Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
Contradiction with Psalm 103:8
Psalm 103:8 describes God as merciful and gracious, slow to anger, contrasting with the depiction of God's swift judgment in Ezekiel 22:20.
Psalm 103:8: The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. [plentious...: Heb. great in mercy]
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:9
This verse highlights the Lord's patience and desire for repentance rather than judgment, which is contrary to the immediate judgment conveyed in Ezekiel 22:20.
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 John 3:17
John 3:17 states that God sent His Son to save the world, not condemn it, which contrasts with the theme of judgment in Ezekiel 22:20.
John 3:17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Contradiction with James 2:13
The idea that mercy triumphs over judgment is presented in James 2:13, which stands in contrast with the judgment in Ezekiel 22:20.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 22:20 might seem harsh or violent because it involves an imagery of melting metals, which some people may see as conflicting with the idea of a loving and merciful God. The contradiction arises when trying to reconcile this imagery of judgment and purification with the concept of divine compassion and forgiveness. This can seem inconsistent with the aspects of God highlighted in other parts of the Bible that emphasize love and mercy.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 22:20 could raise concerns about the contradiction of God's message of love and mercy versus the depiction of judgment and punishment. It might seem inconsistent to some that a loving deity would choose harsh punishment over forgiveness and rehabilitation.