Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
God expresses that He has no pleasure in the death of the wicked, yet Ezekiel 23:18 describes actions that lead to judgment and punishment.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Contradiction with Ezekiel 33:11
The verse states that God takes no pleasure in the death of sinners but wishes them to turn and live, while Ezekiel 23:18 shows Him reacting strongly against their sins.
Ezekiel 33:11: Say unto them, [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:9
Indicates that God is patient and not willing that any should perish, contrasting with Ezekiel 23:18's portrayal of His impending judgment.
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 Isaiah 1:18
Offers forgiveness and cleansing from sin, contradicting the punishment and rejection depicted in Ezekiel 23:18.
Isaiah 1:18: Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Paradox #1
The verse in question discusses themes of infidelity and judgment, which some readers may find inconsistent when considering the broader biblical message of forgiveness and redemption. The portrayal of harsh judgment in Ezekiel might seem at odds with the New Testament's emphasis on grace and forgiveness through Christ. This can appear as a conflict between the ideas of justice and mercy within the Bible.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 23:18 could be seen as inconsistent with the theme of forgiveness and mercy found in other parts of the Bible. This verse talks about judgment and abandonment due to unfaithfulness, which might seem harsh compared to messages of forgiveness and redemption elsewhere. However, in the broader biblical context, it is often understood as part of God's justice and the consequences of actions.
Paradox #3
This verse can be seen as having a contradiction or inconsistency because it describes a rejection or negative judgment on behavior that is part of a metaphor, yet similar behaviors may be depicted differently elsewhere in religious texts, sometimes with tolerance or acceptance. This can create confusion about what is considered morally wrong and lead to differing interpretations.