Contradiction with Colossians 3:22
Advocates for obedience and service to masters, whereas James 5:4 highlights the cry of defrauded laborers.
Colossians 3:22: Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
Contradiction with Ephesians 6:5
Encourages servants to obey earthly masters with fear and trembling, contrasting James 5:4's focus on unjust treatment of workers.
Ephesians 6:5: Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:18
Instructs servants to be subject to their masters, including the harsh ones, potentially conflicting with the complaint of unfair treatment in James 5:4.
1 Peter 2:18: Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
Contradiction with Romans 13:1
Urges subjection to governing authorities, suggesting compliance rather than the protest seen in James 5:4.
Romans 13:1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [ordained: or, ordered]
Paradox #1
Historical records from ancient societies show varying labor and wage practices. James 5:4 discusses how workers should be paid fairly, but in ancient times, not all cultures followed this principle. Some societies accepted delayed or withheld wages, which could lead to a contradiction with the verse's emphasis on timely payment.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in that verse could arise from the tension between religious teachings on fair treatment and the historical acceptance of social hierarchies, including economic disparities. While the verse emphasizes justice for workers, some interpretations of religious doctrine have historically been used to justify unequal wealth distribution. This contradiction challenges the alignment between spiritual beliefs and social practices regarding economic fairness.