Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
This verse commands the worship of no other gods, contradicting Judges 18:20 where the priest serves idols.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:8-9
These verses prohibit making or worshiping idols, contrasting Judges 18:20 where the priest agrees to serve the idols.
Deuteronomy 5:8-9: Thou shalt not make thee [any] graven image, [or] any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the waters beneath the earth:
Contradiction with Matthew 6:24
This verse states one cannot serve two masters, contradicting Judges 18:20 where the priest readily serves false gods.
Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Contradiction with 2 Kings 17:12
Condemns idol worship which is embraced by the priest in Judges 18:20.
2 Kings 17:12: For they served idols, whereof the LORD had said unto them, Ye shall not do this thing.
Paradox #1
The theological conflict in Judges 18:20 could be related to the theme of idolatry. In the context of the Bible, worshiping idols or false gods is considered a sin against God. This verse might highlight issues of loyalty to God versus engaging in practices that go against His commandments. If a religious leader or person is easily swayed by material rewards or social advantages to support such practices, it raises questions about true faith and obedience to God.
Paradox #2
Judges 18:20 could be seen as inconsistent with the idea that religious leaders should act selflessly and with integrity. In this verse, a priest chooses personal gain and status over his duty to serve faithfully, which may conflict with teachings about moral behavior expected from spiritual leaders.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Judges 18:20 could arise from the fact that the verse describes someone agreeing to a request that involves idolatry and theft, which contradicts the teachings against these actions elsewhere in the Bible. This can highlight the inconsistency in following religious laws and ethics.