Contradictions and Paradoxes in Luke 18:11

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Luke 18:11 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Luke 18:11. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Luke, the Pharisee thought he was better than other people because he followed the rules very closely. He prayed and thanked God for being better than others, but he was not humble or kind in his heart.

Luke 18:11: The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men [are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:5

This verse contradicts Luke 18:11 as it warns against praying with a focus on self-exaltation, emphasizing humility over the self-righteousness displayed by the Pharisee.

Matthew 6:5: And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites [are]: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Contradiction with Matthew 23:12

This verse contradicts Luke 18:11 by teaching that those who exalt themselves, as the Pharisee does, will be humbled, whereas the context of Luke 18:11 depicts self-exaltation.

Matthew 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Contradiction with Romans 12:3

This verse contradicts Luke 18:11 by advising believers not to think more highly of themselves than they ought to, contrary to the Pharisee's self-righteousness.

Romans 12:3: For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. [soberly: Gr. to sobriety]

Contradiction with Philippians 2:3

This verse contradicts Luke 18:11 by encouraging humility and valuing others above oneself, contrary to the Pharisee's self-centered prayer.

Philippians 2:3: [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Contradiction with James 4:6

This verse contradicts Luke 18:11 by stating that God opposes the proud, reflecting the opposite of the Pharisee's expressed pride in his prayer.

James 4:6: But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in Luke 18:11 could be about the attitude of pride and self-righteousness versus teachings on humility. The verse showcases a person who is proud and compares himself favorably to others, which conflicts with other biblical teachings that emphasize humility and not judging others.

Paradox #2

The contradiction in Luke 18:11 could be seen as the Pharisee's self-righteousness. He looks down on others and boasts about his own virtues, which contradicts the humility and compassion that many believe are core teachings in the Bible. By focusing on his own perceived superiority, he misses the teaching of love and humility.

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