Contradiction with Proverbs 11:31
Suggests that the righteous will be recompensed in the earth, implying a reward for righteousness rather than for repentance.
Proverbs 11:31: Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:20
Implies that righteousness exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees is necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven, focusing on higher righteousness rather than the repentance emphasized in Luke 15:7.
Matthew 5:20: For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed [the righteousness] of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
Indicates that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven, suggesting that action, rather than repentance alone, is what grants access to heaven.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with Romans 2:6-8
States that God will render to every man according to his deeds, emphasizing actions over repentance.
Romans 2:6-8: Who will render to every man according to his deeds:
Contradiction with James 2:26
Asserts that faith without works is dead, implying that works, not just repentance, are necessary.
James 2:26: For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. [spirit: or, breath]
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between this verse and the idea that all sins are equal in the eyes of God. The verse suggests that there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over many righteous people who do not need to repent, which could seem unfair to those who have lived righteously their entire lives. This could be viewed as inconsistent with the belief that all individuals are equally valuable to God.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in this verse might be the idea that more joy is expressed over a sinner who repents than over individuals who have always done the right thing. This could seem unfair to those who consistently do good, as their loyalty might appear to be undervalued compared to someone who has made mistakes but later repented.