Contradiction with Isaiah 56:6-7
These verses emphasize the acceptance of foreigners who joined themselves to the Lord to serve him, in contrast to Ezra 4:3, where the people refuse help from foreign adversaries in temple building.
Isaiah 56:6-7: Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
Contradiction with Matthew 28:19
This verse commands making disciples of all nations, contrasting with Ezra 4:3, where cooperation with foreigners is refused.
Matthew 28:19: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [teach...: or, make disciples, or, Christians of all nations]
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Emphasizes unity and equality in Christ, contradicting the exclusion in Ezra 4:3.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Contradiction with John 4:9-10
Jesus's interaction with the Samaritan woman presents an openness towards Samaritans, contrasting the refusal of Samaritan assistance in Ezra 4:3.
John 4:9-10: Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
Contradiction with Romans 10:12
Stresses no distinction between Jew and Greek, which contrasts with the exclusivity in Ezra 4:3.
Romans 10:12: For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in Ezra 4:3 might arise when comparing the accounts of who was involved in rebuilding the temple and how they were treated by Israelites, as different books of the Bible provide varied perspectives on these events. This can create confusion about the relationships between the groups during the temple's reconstruction.
Paradox #2
Ezra 4:3 could be seen as having a contradiction because it involves the Jews rejecting help from others who want to assist them in building the temple. This action might conflict with values of cooperation and inclusivity, as it suggests exclusivity and not accepting help despite a common interest in worship. It raises questions about when it's right to refuse assistance and how that aligns with broader teachings of community and support.