Contradiction with Numbers 23:19
This verse emphasizes that God does not lie or change His mind, contradicting the concept that a birthright can be despised, as confirmed in Hebrews 12:16 through the story of Esau.
Numbers 23:19: God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Contradiction with Matthew 19:30
Here, it suggests that the last will be first and the first last, which contradicts the fixed notion of selling one's birthright as irreversible in Hebrews 12:16.
Matthew 19:30: But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first.
Contradiction with Romans 9:13
In this verse, God expresses love for Jacob but hatred for Esau, which contradicts the notion of Esau's choice solely leading to his loss of the birthright in Hebrews 12:16.
Romans 9:13: As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
This verse states that the Lord looks at the heart, contrasting with the focus on Esau's outward actions and decision to sell his birthright in Hebrews 12:16.
1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
Paradox #1
Hebrews 12:16 warns against being immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his inheritance for a single meal. Some may see a contradiction with the idea of forgiveness and redemption in Christianity, as the verse seems to focus on Esau's mistake without offering hope for forgiveness or a second chance. However, in the broader biblical context, the emphasis on repentance and grace suggests that mistakes do not have to be the final word in a person's life, which alleviates the perceived conflict.
Paradox #2
Hebrews 12:16 cautions against immorality and prioritizing temporary desires over spiritual blessings, using Esau's actions as an example. The moral conflict might arise when considering forgiveness and redemption, as the Bible often talks about redemption and forgiveness for wrongdoings, suggesting that people can be forgiven instead of being remembered solely for their mistakes. This could seem inconsistent with the harsh warning against Esau's actions.