Contradiction with Romans 3:23
This verse highlights that all have sinned, contrasting with Luke 15:21 where the son specifically acknowledges his own sinfulness.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Contradiction with Proverbs 20:9
This verse questions who can say they have made their heart pure, which differs from the son's confession of impurity in Luke 15:21.
Proverbs 20:9: Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?
Contradiction with Psalm 51:5
This verse states that individuals are sinful from birth, contradicting the notion of the son's later admission of sin in Luke 15:21.
Psalm 51:5: Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. [conceive...: Heb. warm me]
Paradox #1
The moral conflict in Luke 15:21 could be seen in the son admitting his wrongdoing and feeling unworthy, yet still being welcomed back by the father. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of earning forgiveness or facing consequences for actions. The tension is between justice and grace, or punishment and unconditional love.