Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
Emphasizes that God looks at the heart, similar to Luke 16:15, rather than outward appearances.
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 Matthew 23:28
Criticizes hypocrisy, aligning with Luke 16:15's message against justifying oneself before others.
Matthew 23:28: Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:2
States that every man's way is right in his own eyes, which corresponds with Luke 16:15's focus on how God knows the heart.
Proverbs 21:2: Every way of a man [is] right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
Contradiction with Isaiah 29:13
Addresses honoring God with lips while hearts are far from Him, resonating with Luke 16:15 on true righteousness versus outward shows.
Isaiah 29:13: Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
Contradiction with James 4:6
Emphasizes God's opposition to the proud, congruent with the pride and self-justification criticized in Luke 16:15.
James 4:6: But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Paradox #1
Luke 16:15 can be seen as potentially conflicting with the idea that external appearances and societal status are important in determining someone's worth. This verse emphasizes that God values the condition of the heart over outward appearances or human judgment. If someone believes that worldly success and approval are signs of righteousness or favor, it could contradict the message that God prioritizes internal sincerity and integrity.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or conflict with the message in Luke 16:15 might involve the differing perspectives on wealth and social status between humans and God. While humans often value wealth and outward appearances, this verse suggests that what is highly esteemed by people can be looked down upon by God. This can clash with teachings that do not emphasize the spiritual danger of wealth or prioritize material success. Additionally, it might seem inconsistent with other teachings that portray wealth as a sign of God's blessing, creating a tension between valuing spiritual integrity over material prosperity.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Luke 16:15 could be seen in how it challenges human values, suggesting that what people often admire, such as wealth and status, can be frowned upon by God. This creates tension between worldly values and spiritual values, highlighting that admiration from people may not align with what is truly valuable or right in a spiritual sense.