Contradiction with Proverbs 3:7
This verse advises to not be wise in your own eyes, which contradicts the commendation of shrewdness in Luke 16:8.
Proverbs 3:7: Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:1
This verse states that a false balance is abomination to the Lord, opposing the praise of the steward's dishonest dealings in Luke 16:8.
Proverbs 11:1: A false balance [is] abomination to the LORD: but a just weight [is] his delight. [A false...: Heb. Balances of deceit] [just...: Heb. perfect stone]
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:22
This verse says lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, contradicting the commendation of the unjust steward's shrewd actions in Luke 16:8.
Proverbs 12:22: Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.
Contradiction with Proverbs 19:1
This verse suggests it is better to be poor and honest than perverse in speech and a fool, contrasting with the praise of cunning behavior in Luke 16:8.
Proverbs 19:1: Better [is] the poor that walketh in his integrity, than [he that is] perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
Contradiction with Isaiah 5:20
This verse condemns calling evil good, conflicting with the praise of the unjust steward's actions in Luke 16:8.
Isaiah 5:20: Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! [call...: Heb. say concerning evil, It is good, etc]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 9:8
This verse condemns deceit, contradicting the implication of approval for the steward's cunning behavior in Luke 16:8.
Jeremiah 9:8: Their tongue [is as] an arrow shot out; it speaketh deceit: [one] speaketh peaceably to his neighbour with his mouth, but in heart he layeth his wait. [in heart: Heb. in the midst of him] [his wait: or, wait for him]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:37
This verse advises straightforward honesty, opposing the crafty and dishonest actions praised in Luke 16:8.
Matthew 5:37: But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:10
This verse says thieves will not inherit the kingdom of God, conflicting with the seemingly positive recognition of the unjust steward's behavior in Luke 16:8.
1 Corinthians 6:10: Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:25
This verse promotes speaking truth, contradicting the commendation of the steward's deceitful cleverness in Luke 16:8.
Ephesians 4:25: Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
Contradiction with Colossians 3:9
This verse advises against lying, which opposes the seemingly positive acknowledgment of deceptive behavior in Luke 16:8.
Colossians 3:9: Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:10
This verse encourages refraining from speaking deceit, contrasting with the praise of shrewd actions in Luke 16:8.
1 Peter 3:10: For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
Paradox #1
Luke 16:8 could raise questions about why a dishonest person is praised, which might seem to conflict with other biblical teachings that emphasize honesty and integrity. It can be confusing if it seems to suggest that unethical behavior is admirable. The verse is part of a parable and is often interpreted to illustrate a deeper lesson about wisdom and resourcefulness, rather than endorsing dishonesty.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Luke 16:8 arises from the fact that it praises the shrewdness of the dishonest manager, which seems inconsistent with the overall moral teachings of honesty and integrity found elsewhere in the Bible. This can create confusion about whether cunning behavior is being endorsed.
Paradox #3
Luke 16:8 could present a contradiction because it appears to praise or commend the behavior of a dishonest person. This might seem inconsistent with other teachings that emphasize honesty and integrity. The verse suggests that being shrewd or wise in certain ways is valuable, even if it involves unethical actions. This could conflict with the overall moral message of living an honest and righteous life.