Contradiction with Genesis 18:26
Showcases God's willingness to spare Sodom if righteous individuals are found, which could be seen as a contradiction to the predetermined destruction implied in Genesis 18:20.
Genesis 18:26: And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.
Contradiction with Jonah 3:10
Illustrates God's mercy and change of heart when Nineveh repents, indicating a potential contradiction to the certainty of destruction in Genesis 18:20.
Jonah 3:10: And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did [it] not.
Contradiction with James 2:13
Emphasizes mercy triumphing over judgment, which could contradict the definitive judgment implied in Genesis 18:20.
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 Ezekiel 33:11
Declares God's preference for repentance over punishment, potentially contradicting the irreversible punishment suggested in Genesis 18:20.
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
Describes God's patience and desire for repentance, seemingly conflicting with the immediate judgment foreshadowed in Genesis 18:20.
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 55:7
Encourages repentance and promises mercy, highlighting a contradiction with the destruction that appears certain in Genesis 18:20.
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
Genesis 18:20 speaks of the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah. A contradiction or inconsistency might arise when considering the later destruction of these cities as an example of divine justice. Some could see a conflict between the idea of a loving and merciful God and the severe punishment given to these cities without additional chances for repentance. This could be seen as inconsistent with other parts of scripture that emphasize forgiveness and mercy.