Contradiction with Romans 3:10
This verse states "There is none righteous, no, not one," which supports rather than contradicts the idea in Isaiah 64:6 that all our righteousness is as filthy rags.
Romans 3:10: As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Contradiction with Matthew 5:16
This verse suggests that our good works can glorify God, which contrasts with Isaiah 64:6's emphasis on all our righteousness being inadequate.
Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with James 2:24
This verse asserts that a person is justified by works and not by faith only, which appears to contrast with the notion that all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with 1 John 3:7
This verse encourages that one who does righteousness is righteous, which contrasts with Isaiah 64:6's view of our righteousness being insufficient.
1 John 3:7: Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:10
This verse speaks of us being created for good works, which suggests that our righteous acts have value, contrasting with Isaiah 64:6.
Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. [ordained: or, prepared]
Paradox #1
Isaiah 64:6 might seem contradictory when compared to biblical teachings about righteousness and being good. Some parts of the Bible highlight the importance of good deeds, while this verse suggests that human righteousness is insufficient. It can seem inconsistent because it emphasizes the idea that humans cannot achieve purity or goodness on their own, contrasting with other passages that encourage righteous living.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction between Isaiah 64:6, which talks about people's righteous acts being like "filthy rags," and other parts of the Bible that encourage doing good deeds. For instance, verses in James and Proverbs emphasize the importance of good works and living righteously. The conflict arises from understanding how righteous deeds are viewed: one verse suggests they aren't enough on their own, while others encourage them as important parts of faith and life.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in Isaiah 64:6 could be seen in how it describes human efforts as unworthy or impure, which might conflict with the belief that people can do good and live righteously. If human actions are seen as inherently flawed, it might discourage people from trying to be good or take away from the value of their efforts to live morally.