Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:9
This verse states that there is nothing new under the sun and history repeats itself, contradicting the idea of forgetting the former things.
Ecclesiastes 1:9: The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.
Contradiction with Philippians 3:13
This verse encourages forgetting what is behind, which seemingly supports Isaiah 43:18, but emphasizes the past's irrelevance, contrasting with Isaiah 43:18's implication of moving beyond the specific "former things."
Philippians 3:13: Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:2
This verse encourages believers to remember the words spoken by the prophets, contradicting the notion of forgetting past things mentioned in Isaiah 43:18.
2 Peter 3:2: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:
Contradiction with Proverbs 22:28
This verse advises not to remove ancient landmarks, suggesting the importance of remembering and upholding the past, contrary to the directive in Isaiah 43:18.
Proverbs 22:28: Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. [landmark: or, bound]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 32:7
This verse urges remembering the days of old and considering past generations, standing in contrast to Isaiah 43:18's instruction to forget the former things.
Deuteronomy 32:7: Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee. [many...: Heb. generation and generation]
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Isaiah 43:18 might arise when considering the emphasis on remembering past events in other parts of the Bible, such as in various Psalms or in the recounting of Israel's history. Some parts of the Bible encourage reflection on the past to learn and to remain faithful. This verse, in contrast, suggests not dwelling on former things, which might seem inconsistent with those teachings that value the remembrance of past works of God.