Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
This verse contradicts Jeremiah 3:20 as it speaks of God's desire for repentance and life, contrasting the accusation of treachery.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Contradiction with Hosea 11:8
Describes God's compassionate heart and reluctance to give up on Israel, contrasting with the portrayal of treachery in Jeremiah 3:20.
Hosea 11:8: How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? [how] shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? [how] shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within me, my repentings are kindled together.
Contradiction with Isaiah 54:5-8
God expresses an everlasting love despite temporary anger, which contrasts with the accusation of continuous betrayal in Jeremiah 3:20.
Isaiah 54:5-8: For thy Maker [is] thine husband; the LORD of hosts [is] his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called. [Maker: Heb. Makers]
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:2
Paul speaks of a godly jealousy for the church, much like a husband, presenting a positive relationship instead of betrayal.
2 Corinthians 11:2: For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 3:20 may seem to show a contradiction when considering the idea of God's unchanging love with the depiction of Israel's unfaithfulness. The verse compares Israel to an unfaithful partner, which might seem at odds with God's persistent and forgiving love. However, many interpretations suggest that it highlights God's willingness to forgive despite human unfaithfulness, showing His deep commitment to the relationship.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 3:20 deals with the unfaithfulness of people compared to a spouse being unfaithful. Some might see a contradiction between God's forgiveness and judgment, as God calls for repentance and offers forgiveness, yet also warns of punishment. This could be seen as inconsistent by some who wonder how both can coexist. However, in biblical theology, these aspects are seen as complementary rather than contradictory.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could be seen in the context of commitment and betrayal. It highlights the idea of being unfaithful or turning away from a promise or relationship, which can be in tension with the expectation of loyalty and steadfastness. This inconsistency lies in the human tendency to stray versus the ideal of unwavering faithfulness.