Contradiction with Psalm 8:5
This verse states that humans are made "a little lower than the angels" and are crowned with glory and honor, suggesting a position of dignity rather than "offscouring" as mentioned in Lamentations 3:45.
Psalm 8:5: For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
Contradiction with Genesis 1:27
Describes humans as created in the image of God, implying inherent worth and value, differing from being considered as "offscouring and refuse."
Genesis 1:27: So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:10
Refers to humans as God's workmanship, which contrasts with being regarded as "offscouring."
Ephesians 2:10: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. [ordained: or, prepared]
Contradiction with 1 John 3:1
Speaks of the love the Father has for us, calling us children of God, which contrasts with being viewed as "offscouring."
1 John 3:1: Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
Contradiction with Romans 8:17
Indicates believers as heirs with Christ, suggesting honor and value in contrast to "offscouring."
Romans 8:17: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.
Contradiction with Psalm 139:14
Declares individuals as fearfully and wonderfully made, which contradicts the depiction of them as "offscouring."
Psalm 139:14: I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well. [right...: Heb. greatly]
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction in Lamentations 3:45 could be the idea of God's chosen people being rejected or treated with scorn, which might conflict with the notion of God’s unwavering covenant and protection over them. This raises questions about how divine love and justice are reconciled with suffering and punishment.
Paradox #2
Lamentations 3:45 speaks about feeling like an object of scorn or being treated poorly. The contradiction or conflict could be seen in how this sentiment contrasts with the teachings of love, forgiveness, and respect for others found elsewhere in the Bible. It highlights a tension between experiencing injustice and the ideal of responding with compassion and understanding. This can create a conflict for those trying to reconcile feelings of hurt with practicing love and forgiveness.