Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:2-3
Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of God's specific plans for prosperity and hope, while Ecclesiastes indicates that the same fate—misfortune—occurs to everyone randomly.
Ecclesiastes 9:2-3: All [things come] alike to all: [there is] one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that sacrificeth not: as [is] the good, so [is] the sinner; [and] he that sweareth, as [he] that feareth an oath.
Contradiction with Job 14:1
Jeremiah 29:11 assures a future of hope, whereas Job acknowledges life is full of trouble.
Job 14:1: Man [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble. [few...: Heb. short of days]
Contradiction with Luke 14:27
Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of plans to prosper, while Luke calls for personal sacrifice, suggesting hardship.
Luke 14:27: And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
Contradiction with Matthew 10:34
Jeremiah 29:11 refers to peace and prosperity, but Matthew speaks about Jesus bringing not peace but a sword.
Matthew 10:34: Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 3:12
Jeremiah promises prosperity, while Timothy warns that all who live godly lives will face persecution.
2 Timothy 3:12: Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 4:12
Jeremiah speaks of peaceful plans, but Peter warns believers to not be surprised by fiery trials.
1 Peter 4:12: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
Contradiction with Romans 8:36
Jeremiah 29:11 suggests positive plans, yet Romans describes believers as being constantly endangered for God's sake.
Romans 8:36: As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
Paradox #1
Some people find a contradiction in this verse when they compare it to the reality that not all lives seem to prosper or find peace, even among those who believe in God. The verse seems very optimistic, but real-world experiences of suffering and hardship can appear to conflict with the promise of a hopeful future. This can create tension between expectation and experience.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 29:11 is sometimes seen as conflicting with experiences of suffering and hardship because it talks about plans for prosperity and hope. Some people might find it inconsistent when their lives are difficult or when the broader context of suffering is considered. It raises questions about how to understand promises of good plans alongside real-world struggles.
Paradox #3
Jeremiah 29:11 is sometimes seen as a contradiction when compared to the broader context of its time. The verse offers words of hope and a prosperous future, but it was directed to people living in exile facing hardship. While the verse suggests a positive outlook, the immediate situation was challenging and filled with uncertainty. This raises questions about the timing and applicability of its hopeful message.
Paradox #4
Some people might see a contradiction in this verse when they consider the larger context of suffering and hardship in the world. While the verse promises hope and a good future, real-life experiences of pain, loss, and injustice might seem inconsistent with this promise. This can create conflict for those who struggle to reconcile the verse's message with their personal or observed experiences of suffering.