Contradiction with Job 36:11
While Haggai 2:17 discusses punishment, this verse promises prosperity if they obey and serve.
Job 36:11: If they obey and serve [him], they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:11
Haggai 2:17 mentions God striking people, whereas this verse speaks of God giving peace and hope.
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 James 1:17
Contrasts Haggai 2:17’s image of God causing woes with James’ portrayal of God as the giver of every good gift.
James 1:17: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Contradiction with Psalms 23:6
Focuses on goodness and mercy following those faithful to God, unlike the calamities described in Haggai 2:17.
Psalms 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. [for ever: Heb. to length of days]
Contradiction with Romans 8:28
Suggests God works all things for good for those who love Him, contrasting the negative outcomes in Haggai 2:17.
Romans 8:28: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.
Paradox #1
Haggai 2:17 talks about God sending hardship or punishment to the people to encourage them to return to Him. Some people might find it contradictory because in other parts of the Bible, God is described as loving and caring. This could seem inconsistent because a loving God might not be expected to cause suffering. However, others interpret this as God's tough love, aiming to guide people back to a better path.
Paradox #2
Haggai 2:17 describes how God brought hardships to His people to encourage them to return to Him. A potential moral conflict could arise from the idea of inflicting suffering as a way to teach or guide people. Some might find it contradictory to the compassionate nature often attributed to a loving deity, questioning whether such actions are justified if they result in pain.