Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20
This verse advises laying up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, which can contradict the notion of selling possessions and giving to the poor as a sole path to heaven.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Contradiction with Proverbs 13:22
This verse suggests that a good person leaves an inheritance to their grandchildren, contradicting the directive to sell all possessions.
Proverbs 13:22: A good [man] leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner [is] laid up for the just.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17-18
This passage advises the rich not to be high-minded and to trust in God, not in uncertain riches, but it doesn’t suggest selling all possessions.
1 Timothy 6:17-18: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:19
This verse indicates that wealth and possessions are a gift from God and that people should enjoy them, contradicting the act of selling everything.
Ecclesiastes 5:19: Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this [is] the gift of God.
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction with this verse because it could be interpreted as suggesting that wealth is fundamentally incompatible with following Jesus. However, other parts of the Bible describe wealthy people who are faithful followers. This could create confusion about the relationship between wealth and faithfulness.
Paradox #2
Luke 18:22 may seem to contradict the idea that salvation is through faith alone and not by works. In this verse, Jesus tells a rich man to sell everything he has and give to the poor to have treasure in heaven. This could be seen as suggesting that giving away wealth is necessary for eternal life, conflicting with the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith, as emphasized in other parts of the New Testament, like in Paul's letters.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency with Luke 18:22 could involve the challenge of living a life in accordance to the verse's advice in the context of different economic and social systems throughout history. During times or in societies where private property and wealth accumulation were central to economic structures, following the advice could be seen as counter-cultural or impractical. Additionally, interpretations of the verse have varied, leading to differences in how individuals and religious groups perceive and apply its message in their lives, causing debate or tension.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction lies in the directive to sell everything and give to the poor. Scientifically, this could be seen as impractical for economic stability and personal survival, as individuals need resources for their own sustenance and not everyone is in a position to give up all possessions without impacting their ability to meet basic needs. Additionally, from an economic perspective, it may not provide a sustainable solution to poverty.
Paradox #5
The potential contradiction or conflict could be that it seems to suggest giving up all possessions, which might be impractical for those who need to support their families or maintain a livelihood. This could be seen as conflicting with the responsibility to care for oneself and others.