Contradiction with Exodus 25:40
Hebrews 8:5 refers to the priests serving a copy and shadow of heavenly things according to the pattern shown to Moses, while Exodus 25:40 emphasizes the need to create the earthly tabernacle exactly as shown to Moses on the mount, ensuring it is not merely a shadow but a true representation.
Exodus 25:40: And look that thou make [them] after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount. [which...: Heb. which thou wast caused to see]
Contradiction with Colossians 2:17
Hebrews 8:5 discusses earthly sacrifices and rites as a shadow of the heavenly sanctuary, whereas Colossians 2:17 presents these as a shadow with the reality or substance being in Christ, downplaying the necessity of the old covenant practices altogether.
Colossians 2:17: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body [is] of Christ.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:18
Hebrews 8:5 talks about the old covenant and tabernacle as shadows, possibly implying a transient nature, in contrast, Matthew 5:18 states that not even the smallest detail will disappear from the law until everything is accomplished, suggesting an enduring aspect of the law.
Matthew 5:18: For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
Contradiction with John 4:21
In Hebrews 8:5, the earthly sanctuary is a shadow of the real one in heaven, while John 4:21 tells of a time coming where worship will not be tied to physical locations like Jerusalem or the earthly sanctuary at all, highlighting a shift from physical to spiritual worship.
John 4:21: Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.
Contradiction with Galatians 3:24-25
While Hebrews 8:5 delineates the role of the earthly copy in temple services, Galatians 3:24-25 positions the law as our custodian until Christ, after which we are no longer under a custodian, suggesting the end of the shadow role presented in Hebrews 8:5.
Galatians 3:24-25: Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster [to bring us] unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Contradiction with Acts 7:48-49
Hebrews 8:5 suggests a heavenly model for earthly worship setups; Acts 7:48-49 emphasizes that God does not dwell in temples made by human hands, challenging the very premise of needing an earthly copy or shadow based on a heavenly model.
Acts 7:48-49: Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,
Contradiction with Romans 10:4
Hebrews 8:5 implies the continuation of temple services as a shadow of heavenly things, whereas Romans 10:4 declares Christ as the end of the law for righteousness, questioning the ongoing necessity of these shadows in light of Christ's fulfillment.
Romans 10:4: For Christ [is] the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Paradox #1
Hebrews 8:5 mentions that certain things serve as copies or shadows of heavenly things. A potential doctrinal inconsistency might arise when comparing this with the idea that some Old Testament practices and structures were not merely symbolic but held inherent meaning and value. If taken literally, the verse might seem to conflict with interpretations that place intrinsic importance on these practices, suggesting instead that they primarily pointed toward a greater spiritual reality.
Paradox #2
Hebrews 8:5 discusses the idea of earthly priests and sacrifices being a shadow or copy of heavenly things. A potential moral conflict here might be the idea that these religious practices, which people follow devoutly, are merely imperfect copies rather than having intrinsic value. This could lead to questioning the significance or authenticity of religious rituals and their effectiveness in spiritual life.