Contradiction with James 2:24-25
While Hebrews 11:31 commends Rahab for her faith, James 2:24-25 emphasizes that she was justified by works, suggesting action alongside faith.
James 2:24-25: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with Joshua 2:1-2
Hebrews 11:31 indicates Rahab acted out of faith, while Joshua 2:1-2 portrays her as simply providing shelter to the spies with no initial mention of her faith.
Joshua 2:1-2: And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. [sent: or, had sent] [lodged: Heb. lay]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 7:1-2
Hebrews 11:31 praises Rahab's actions towards Israelite spies, whereas Deuteronomy 7:1-2 commands the destruction of these nations, complicating the commendation of an act that aids their enemies.
Deuteronomy 7:1-2: When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee, the Hittites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Canaanites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, seven nations greater and mightier than thou;
Contradiction with Romans 3:28
Hebrews 11:31 highlights Rahab's faith, whereas Romans 3:28 supports justification by faith without deeds, seeming inconsistent since Rahab's act is pointed out.
Romans 3:28: Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Contradiction with Exodus 23:32-33
Hebrews 11:31 celebrates Rahab's alliance, while Exodus 23:32-33 warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which Rahab essentially does.
Exodus 23:32-33: Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods.
Paradox #1
The story of Hebrews 11:31 might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize the following of the law and moral conduct. Here, Rahab, who was a prostitute, is commended for her faith. This might appear contradictory to biblical teachings that promote moral purity. However, this can also be seen as an example of God's grace, demonstrating that faith and actions can transcend past sins and lead to salvation.
Paradox #2
Hebrews 11:31 mentions Rahab as someone who showed faith by helping the Israelites. A potential contradiction is that in the Old Testament book of Joshua, Rahab is described as a prostitute, which doesn’t traditionally align with the idea of a person of faith. Additionally, Rahab's city, Jericho, was supposed to be completely destroyed, but she and her family were spared. This raises questions about the complete destruction commanded by God and how exceptions are made.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse can arise from the fact that Rahab's actions, which involved deception, are praised for her faith. This raises questions about the morality of lying and whether doing so can ever be justified if it serves a greater good. Some people may see a conflict between the ethical teaching against lying and the positive example of Rahab's deceit in the context of her faith and protection of others.