Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
This verse talks about God taking no pleasure in the death of the wicked, urging them to turn and live, which contrasts with the punishment described in Ezekiel 7:4.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with James 2:13
This verse speaks of mercy triumphing over judgment, which contrasts with the unyielding judgment in Ezekiel 7:4.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:9
This verse emphasizes God's patience and His desire for everyone to reach repentance, which contradicts the swift retribution mentioned in Ezekiel 7:4.
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 Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies, which contrasts with the lack of mercy shown in Ezekiel 7:4.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:7
This verse invites the wicked to forsake their ways and receive mercy, differing from the inevitable judgment seen in Ezekiel 7:4.
Isaiah 55:7: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. [the unrighteous...: Heb. the man of iniquity] [abundantly...: Heb. multiply to pardon]
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 7:4 could be seen as emphasizing God's judgment and lack of pity. This may seem inconsistent with the concept of a merciful and loving God found elsewhere in the Bible. However, many theologians argue that both justice and mercy are aspects of God's nature and are not truly contradictory when considering the broader biblical context.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 7:4 talks about God’s judgment without pity. The contradiction or conflict might arise from the contrast between a loving, merciful God and the portrayal of a God executing harsh judgment. This can seem inconsistent with the idea of forgiveness and compassion that is emphasized in other parts of the Bible.