Contradiction with John 3:16
This verse emphasizes God's love and offering of salvation to all through Jesus, contrasting with Leviticus 20:3's focus on severe punishment.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches love for enemies, which contrasts with the harsh judgment prescribed in Leviticus 20:3.
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 Luke 6:36
Encourages mercy as God is merciful, conflicting with the unforgiving punishment in Leviticus 20:3.
Luke 6:36: Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Advises leaving vengeance to God, whereas Leviticus 20:3 prescribes human-administered justice.
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 18:32
Highlights God's desire for repentance and life rather than death, contradicting Leviticus 20:3's call for punishment.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
Jesus prioritizes mercy over sacrifice, contrasting with the punitive approach in Leviticus 20:3.
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 James 2:13
States mercy triumphs over judgment, opposing the strict judgment described in Leviticus 20:3.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
Leviticus 20:3 discusses the punishment for giving one's children to Molech, emphasizing God's disapproval and punishment for idolatry. A potential contradiction could be seen in the differing biblical views on punishment and forgiveness. While some verses emphasize strict punishments for certain sins, others stress forgiveness, mercy, and repentance. This can appear inconsistent when trying to understand God’s nature as both just and forgiving.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 20:3 discusses severe punishment for certain actions. A potential contradiction could be the severity of the punishment compared to values of forgiveness and mercy emphasized elsewhere in religious teachings. This could seem inconsistent with ideas of rehabilitation or compassion.