Jeremiah 51:22 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the prophet Jeremiah, God is telling the people that He can use His power to stop everyone, no matter who they are, if they disobey Him. It's like God is saying He will make things right by stopping those who are doing wrong things.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

Jeremiah 51:22 discusses breaking and destruction, whereas Matthew 5:39 advises to not resist evil and turn the other cheek instead, promoting non-violence.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Jeremiah 51:22 implies humans executing judgment, while Romans 12:19 instructs individuals not to seek vengeance but leave it to God.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

Jeremiah 51:22 encompasses destruction, yet Exodus 20:13 commands not to kill, which advocates for preserving life.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22

Whereas Jeremiah 51:22 speaks of breaking and destruction, Proverbs 25:21-22 advises feeding and caring for enemies, which is an act of kindness.

Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Paradox #1

Some might see a conflict between Jeremiah 51:22 and certain teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. Jeremiah talks about using force and destruction, while Jesus often emphasizes love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek. This can seem like a contradiction between messages of violence versus peace.

Paradox #2

Jeremiah 51:22 is part of a passage where various groups, including man and woman, are described as being broken or shattered. A potential contradiction could arise from the broader biblical context, which often emphasizes themes of peace and love. This verse, instead, highlights violence and destruction, creating tension with other biblical messages about compassion and non-violence.

Paradox #3

The potential contradiction in Jeremiah 51:22 might be the promotion of violence or destruction, while other teachings in the Bible emphasize love, peace, and compassion. This could appear inconsistent with the larger message of forgiveness and nonviolence in other parts of biblical scripture.