Contradiction with James 4:12
This verse states that there is only one lawgiver and judge, implying human judgment or execution is not rightful, contradicting the call for death to disobedience in Joshua 1:18.
James 4:12: There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Here, Jesus teaches to love enemies and do good to those who hate you, contrasting with the command to put to death those who rebel in Joshua 1:18.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with John 8:7
Jesus challenges those without sin to cast the first stone, promoting mercy over the harsh punishment described in Joshua 1:18.
John 8:7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse advises against taking vengeance, which contradicts the strict punitive measures in Joshua 1:18.
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 Ezekiel 33:11
God expresses no pleasure in the death of the wicked, only their repentance, contrasting with the fatal penalty for disobedience in Joshua 1:18.
Ezekiel 33:11: Say unto them, [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
Contradiction with Luke 6:27-28
Jesus instructs to love and pray for your enemies, contradicting the call for execution of dissenters in Joshua 1:18.
Luke 6:27-28: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Paradox #1
Joshua 1:18 could raise concerns over the theme of strict obedience and the harsh consequence of disobedience, which may seem inconsistent with the broader message of forgiveness and compassion found elsewhere in the Bible. This tension between justice and mercy can be a point of theological discussion.
Paradox #2
Some people find an inconsistency between the strict punishment for anyone who disobeys Joshua and the earlier biblical message of mercy and forgiveness. They feel this seems harsh compared to other teachings in the Bible that focus on compassion.
Paradox #3
This verse speaks about the requirement for obedience and the severe consequence of death for those who disobey. The moral conflict arises when considering the value of mercy and forgiveness versus strict punishment. It may seem contradictory because while some parts of the Bible emphasize forgiveness and love, this verse emphasizes severe punishment for disobedience.