Contradiction with Matthew 5:16
This verse emphasizes showing good works outwardly, while Luke 11:39 criticizes focusing on outward appearances.
Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
This verse states that the Lord looks at the heart, contrasting Luke 11:39 where there is criticism of external appearances but indicates a need for internal purity.
1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:3-4
This verse encourages the hidden person of the heart without elaborate external adornment, seemingly aligning with Luke 11:39 but differing in its gentle and quiet spirit focus.
1 Peter 3:3-4: Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
Contradiction with Matthew 23:27
This verse parallels the critique of outward appearance in Luke 11:39 but adds more negative symbolism to appearances.
Matthew 23:27: Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead [men's] bones, and of all uncleanness.
Contradiction with Proverbs 31:30
Emphasizes favor and beauty's deceit, similar to Luke 11:39's focus on the inside being more important than outward appearance but without attacking external cleanliness.
Proverbs 31:30: Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Paradox #1
Luke 11:39 highlights hypocrisy, criticizing those who focus on outward appearances rather than inner purity. Some might see a contradiction with passages that stress the importance of religious rituals and external observance. However, this is often understood as emphasizing internal sincerity over mere ceremonial compliance, not an actual contradiction. Overall, it calls for harmony between inner faith and outward actions.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict could be seen in the idea of focusing on outer appearances or rituals while neglecting genuine inner goodness and compassion. This suggests a conflict between external religious observance and internal moral integrity.