Contradiction with Exodus 34:6-7
This verse emphasizes God's mercy and compassion, which contrasts with the depiction of divine retribution in Isaiah 66:16.
Exodus 34:6-7: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse teaches to love enemies and pray for persecutors, which contradicts the concept of destruction through divine judgment in Isaiah 66:16.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
This verse states that God takes no pleasure in the death of anyone and urges repentance, contradicting the portrayal of divine judgment by fire and sword in Isaiah 66:16.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with John 3:17
This verse mentions that God did not send his Son to condemn the world but to save it, opposing the idea of executing judgment as described in Isaiah 66:16.
John 3:17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Contradiction with James 2:13
This verse highlights mercy triumphing over judgment, contrasting with the destructive judgment by fire and sword in Isaiah 66:16.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
A potential contradiction or conflict in Isaiah 66:16 could be the depiction of divine judgment involving violence or destruction. Some might see a conflict between this portrayal and the concept of a loving and merciful God. The struggle is reconciling the idea of a compassionate deity with one that also enacts severe justice.