Contradiction with 2 Samuel 24:1
This verse states that God moved David to take a census of Israel, whereas in Luke 2:1, the census is ordered by a secular authority, Caesar Augustus, suggesting different divine versus earthly motivations for a census.
2 Samuel 24:1: And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.
Paradox #1
The contradiction related to this verse focuses on the timing of a census mentioned in it. It suggests that a census took place during the reign of Caesar Augustus, which brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. However, historical records indicate that there is no evidence of a Roman Empire-wide census occurring at that specific time. Additionally, the governor mentioned in the verse, Quirinius, conducted a known census about a decade later, which creates a timeline inconsistency.
Paradox #2
The main contradiction with Luke 2:1 is the historical timeline issue. The verse says that a census took place during the time of Caesar Augustus, but historical records don't confirm a census that matches all the details in the narrative about when Jesus was born. Additionally, historical records suggest such a census would not have required people to travel to their ancestral homes, as described.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Luke 2:1 is related to the timing of the census ordered by Caesar Augustus. Historical records do not clearly verify such a census taking place during the time frame traditionally associated with the birth of Jesus. Additionally, records indicate that Quirinius, the governor of Syria who conducted a known census, held his position later than when Jesus is believed to have been born. This timing inconsistency raises questions about the historical accuracy of the events described.