Contradiction with Proverbs 24:11-12
This verse encourages rescuing those being led to death, implying personal responsibility rather than relying solely on a watchman.
Proverbs 24:11-12: If thou forbear to deliver [them that are] drawn unto death, and [those that are] ready to be slain;
Contradiction with Matthew 18:15
This verse emphasizes the role of personal confrontation in preventing wrongdoing, which contradicts the singular role of the watchman implied in Ezekiel 33:6.
Matthew 18:15: Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
Contradiction with Philippians 2:4
This verse advises individuals to look out for the interests of others, suggesting a collective responsibility that contrasts with the watchman's isolated duty.
Philippians 2:4: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 33:6 talks about the responsibility of a watchman to warn people. A potential contradiction could be the idea of God's justice versus human responsibility. This verse suggests that humans have a role in preventing others' harm by warning them, but this could seem inconsistent with the belief that God is in control and will judge all fairly. If God is all-knowing and just, some might question why human intervention is necessary. However, many interpret this as emphasizing the partnership between divine guidance and human action.
Paradox #2
This verse talks about the responsibility of a watchman to warn people of danger. The moral conflict here could be about responsibility and accountability. If the watchman fails to warn, people might suffer. This raises questions about individual responsibility versus collective responsibility: is it only the watchman’s fault, or do individuals also have a duty to be aware and prepared for dangers themselves?