Contradiction with Amos 3:2
Whereas Isaiah 45:4 suggests Israel's specific chosen status, Amos 3:2 implies consequences of being chosen through exclusive judgment for sins.
Amos 3:2: You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. [punish: Heb. visit upon]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 7:6
While Isaiah 45:4 highlights Jacob's selection for service, Deuteronomy 7:6 stresses Israel as a holy people chosen for privilege, not just service.
Deuteronomy 7:6: For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that [are] upon the face of the earth.
Contradiction with Matthew 22:14
Isaiah 45:4 presents a premise of a singular, chosen nation, whereas Matthew 22:14 distinguishes between many being called and few chosen.
Matthew 22:14: Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in [his] talk.
Contradiction with Romans 9:30-31
Isaiah 45:4 emphasizes selection of Israel, yet Romans 9:30-31 indicates Gentiles attaining righteousness outweighing the pursuit of Israel.
Romans 9:30-31: What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.
Contradiction with Acts 10:34-35
While Isaiah 45:4 focuses on God's chosen people, Acts 10:34-35 declares God’s lack of partiality and acceptance of those fearing Him in all nations.
Acts 10:34-35: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Isaiah 45:4 identifies a specific group chosen by God, but Galatians 3:28 speaks of equality, eliminating divisions, including Jew and Gentile distinctions.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Paradox #1
Isaiah 45:4 mentions Cyrus, a Persian king, being chosen by God before he knew Him. Some people find this surprising because it suggests that a non-Israelite, and a ruler of a different empire, plays a special role in God's plan for Israel. This might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that focus more on Israelite leaders and prophets.