Contradiction with Jeremiah 3:12-13
These verses invite Israel to return to the Lord despite their waywardness, showing God's willingness to forgive, whereas Jeremiah 5:7 highlights their unfaithfulness and implies judgment.
Jeremiah 3:12-13: Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the LORD; [and] I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I [am] merciful, saith the LORD, [and] I will not keep [anger] for ever.
Contradiction with Hosea 11:8-9
God expresses reluctance to execute judgment on Ephraim and shows compassion, in contrast to the judgment implied in Jeremiah 5:7.
Hosea 11:8-9: 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 Matthew 9:13
Jesus emphasizes mercy over sacrifice, whereas Jeremiah 5:7 speaks to the faithlessness of the people leading to judgment.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:7
This verse encourages the wicked to return to the Lord for mercy and pardon, while Jeremiah 5:7 questions how forgiveness can happen amidst unfaithfulness.
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 Ezekiel 18:30-32
God invites repentance and offers life, showing a willingness to forgive those who turn from their ways, contrasting with the impending judgment in Jeremiah 5:7.
Ezekiel 18:30-32: 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]
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 5:7 could be seen as conflicting with certain verses about God's patience and forgiveness. While some parts of the Bible emphasize God's endless mercy, this verse might seem to contrast by highlighting consequences for unfaithfulness. However, it can be interpreted as emphasizing accountability rather than outright contradiction.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict in Jeremiah 5:7 could lie in the idea of punishment for collective behavior. The verse suggests that the people are being punished for turning to other gods and engaging in immoral behavior, but some might see a conflict in punishing an entire group, including those who may not have participated in these actions. This raises questions about collective versus individual responsibility and justice.