Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
Luke 22:38 suggests readiness for defense with swords, while Matthew 5:39 teaches turning the other cheek, implying non-violence.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Luke 22:38 involves acquiring swords, whereas Matthew 26:52 advises against using the sword, indicating those who do so shall perish by it.
Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Contradiction with John 18:11
Luke 22:38 discusses obtaining swords, but John 18:11 shows Jesus telling Peter to put away his sword, suggesting a contradiction in the use of weapons.
John 18:11: Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
Luke 22:38 involves arming with swords, in contrast to Isaiah 2:4, which speaks of swords being beaten into plowshares, indicating peace over armed conflict.
Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Luke 22:38 implies readiness for conflict; however, Romans 12:19 advises against seeking personal vengeance, leaving justice to God.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Paradox #1
Luke 22:38 could seem to contradict Jesus' teachings on non-violence and loving enemies. In this verse, Jesus tells his disciples to buy swords, which appears to conflict with his earlier messages of peace. This could cause confusion about his stance on self-defense or using force. However, some interpretations suggest he was speaking metaphorically or preparing them for upcoming challenges.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction could be related to the context in which Jesus advises his disciples to arm themselves with swords. This advice seems inconsistent with his overall teachings of peace and non-violence. Some may find it conflicting, as later events in the Gospel show Jesus reprimanding the use of weapons.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Luke 22:38 could be seen in the context of Jesus' teachings about peace and non-violence. Earlier, Jesus encouraged love for enemies and turning the other cheek. The verse seems to suggest preparing for conflict, which appears inconsistent with these teachings of non-violence.