Contradictions and Paradoxes in Ezekiel 38:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Ezekiel 38:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Ezekiel 38:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Ezekiel, this verse means that in the future, a great army will come against God's people, Israel, like a big cloud covering the land. God will use this to show everyone how powerful and holy He is, and that He is the one true God.

Ezekiel 38:16: And thou shalt come up against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the heathen may know me, when I shall be sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

While Ezekiel 38:16 describes a warlike scenario, Isaiah 2:4 envisions a future where nations no longer wage war.

Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:11

Ezekiel 38:16 speaks of a calamity upon Israel, whereas Jeremiah 29:11 promises peace and prosperity to the people.

Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected...: Heb. end and expectation]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:9

Ezekiel 38:16 references a coming battle, conflicting with Matthew 5:9's blessing for peacemakers.

Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Contradiction with Micah 4:3

Ezekiel 38:16 depicts nations gathering for war, in contrast to Micah 4:3 where nations turn their weapons into farming tools.

Micah 4:3: And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:3

Ezekiel 38:16 speaks of an imminent attack, while 1 Thessalonians 5:3 refers to destruction coming when people expect peace.

1 Thessalonians 5:3: For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

Contradiction with John 14:27

Ezekiel 38:16 describes turmoil and conflict, contradicting Jesus’ promise of peace in John 14:27.

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Paradox #1

Ezekiel 38:16's potential contradiction or conflict might arise when comparing it to the theme of peace and restoration for Israel found elsewhere in the prophets. While this verse speaks about a great invasion against Israel, other parts of the Bible emphasize God's protection and peace for Israel. This could appear inconsistent to some readers, as it seems to contrast God's promise of safety with an impending threat.

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