Luke 18:16 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Luke, Jesus wants children to come to Him and says not to stop them because God's special place is for people like them. He shows that children are important and loved by God.

Contradiction with Matthew 15:24

Jesus states His mission is solely for the lost sheep of Israel, seemingly excluding others like children.

Matthew 15:24: But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Contradiction with Matthew 7:6

Exhorts against giving what is holy to dogs or casting pearls before swine, suggesting exclusion rather than inclusion like in Luke 18:16.

Matthew 7:6: Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:34

Commands women to keep silent in churches, contrasting the openness toward children in Luke 18:16.

1 Corinthians 14:34: Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but [they are commanded] to be under obedience, as also saith the law.

Contradiction with 2 Kings 2:23-24

Elisha curses children, leading to their harm, which contradicts the welcoming stance towards children in Luke 18:16.

2 Kings 2:23-24: And he went up from thence unto Bethel: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head.

Contradiction with Proverbs 13:24

Advocates for disciplining children, seemingly contradictory to the unqualified welcoming in Luke 18:16.

Proverbs 13:24: He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

Contradiction with Ephesians 6:1

Emphasizes children obeying parents, which focuses more on obedience than the freedom suggested in Luke 18:16.

Ephesians 6:1: Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Paradox #1

Luke 18:16 talks about welcoming children and letting them come. A possible contradiction might arise if one considers situations in religious or societal contexts where children are not given the freedom, safety, or nurturing environment they deserve. This could conflict with the verse's message of openness and acceptance.