Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:30
This verse emphasizes individual repentance and turning from transgressions, contrasting with the collective acknowledgment of perversion in Jeremiah 3:21.
Ezekiel 18:30: Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn [yourselves] from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:7
Encourages the wicked to forsake their way, highlighting a proactive return to the Lord, whereas Jeremiah 3:21 focuses on a cry from the high places without mentioning forsaking ways.
Isaiah 55:7: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. [the unrighteous...: Heb. the man of iniquity] [abundantly...: Heb. multiply to pardon]
Contradiction with 1 John 1:9
Stresses confession leading to forgiveness and cleansing from unrighteousness, which contrasts with the mere acknowledgment of perversion in Jeremiah 3:21.
1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Contradiction with Matthew 11:28
Invites all who labor and are heavy laden to come to Jesus for rest, presenting an assurance absent in the weeping and pleading context of Jeremiah 3:21.
Matthew 11:28: Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Contradiction with Psalm 32:5
Expresses a personal acknowledgment of sin leading directly to forgiveness, unlike the general cry of treachery in Jeremiah 3:21 without immediate resolution.
Psalm 32:5: I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Jeremiah 3:21 could come from the idea of forgiveness and accountability. The verse suggests that people who have acted wrongly can return and be forgiven. This might seem inconsistent because it appears to offer a path to forgiveness without clear consequences for the wrong actions, which might conflict with the idea of justice. However, some may argue that the focus on forgiveness and the chance to change is a strength, not a contradiction.