Contradiction with 1 John 1:9
Confession of sins is the primary step here for forgiveness, while Jonah 3:8 emphasizes action and turning away from evil without mention of confession.
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 Romans 10:9
Salvation is described as confessing and believing in Jesus, in contrast to Jonah 3:8, which focuses on actions of turning from evil and calling upon God.
Romans 10:9: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
Emphasizes doing God’s will as a requirement for entering the kingdom, contradicting Jonah 3:8 where the focus is on turning from evil as a means for God’s mercy.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
Salvation by grace through faith, not works, contradicts Jonah 3:8's focus on actions of turning away from evil deeds.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Contradiction with James 2:17
Faith without works is dead, whereas Jonah 3:8 suggests turning from evil and calling to God as sufficient for seeking mercy.
James 2:17: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. [alone: Gr. by itself]
Paradox #1
Ancient cultures, including those in biblical times, might not have understood animal behavior or physiology the way we do today. If animals were actually made to wear sackcloth or fast, it could be seen as inconsistent with their natural instincts and needs. This might be considered scientifically implausible because animals lack the understanding of human rituals like fasting or wearing sackcloth.
Paradox #2
Jonah 3:8 talks about calling on God and turning away from evil, while also involving animals in wearing sackcloth and fasting. The contradiction or inconsistency may arise from the concept of animals participating in religious repentance, as animals are generally not considered morally responsible beings. This may seem inconsistent with the idea of moral agency being necessary for repentance.