Contradiction with Proverbs 1:7
This verse states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, which contrasts with Jeremiah 4:22 depicting people as having no understanding yet being wise in doing evil.
Proverbs 1:7: The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction. [the beginning: or, the principal part]
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:23
This verse suggests that it is a sport to a fool to do mischief, which contrasts with the notion in Jeremiah 4:22 of people being wise to do evil instead of foolish.
Proverbs 10:23: [It is] as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
Contradiction with James 3:13
This verse speaks about wise conduct with meekness and wisdom, which contradicts Jeremiah 4:22 wherein the wisdom mentioned is solely used for doing evil.
James 3:13: Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:20
This verse questions the wisdom of the world, suggesting God has made it foolishness, contrasting with Jeremiah 4:22 where people are shrewd in doing evil.
1 Corinthians 1:20: Where [is] the wise? where [is] the scribe? where [is] the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
Contradiction with Matthew 7:24
This verse commends those who hear the words of Christ and act on them as wise, differing from Jeremiah 4:22's portrayal of people understanding evil but lacking in doing good.
Matthew 7:24: Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:13
This verse blesses those who find wisdom and understanding, which contradicts the perspective in Jeremiah 4:22 where understanding is corrupted by evil intentions.
Proverbs 3:13: Happy [is] the man [that] findeth wisdom, and the man [that] getteth understanding. [that getteth...: Heb. that draweth out understanding]
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 4:22 might seem to contradict the idea of God's people always following His wisdom, as the verse speaks about their foolishness and lack of understanding. This could appear inconsistent with the belief that God's chosen people are always guided and wise.
Paradox #2
This verse highlights a conflict between knowledge and behavior. It suggests that people may know how to do wrong or make foolish choices, despite having the capacity for wisdom and understanding. The contradiction lies in having the ability to do good but choosing otherwise.