Contradiction with Mark 7:15
This verse suggests that nothing external can defile a person, which contrasts with the idea of being ceremonially clean or holy due to purification rites mentioned in Luke 2:23.
Mark 7:15: If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
Contradiction with Romans 14:14
This verse claims that nothing is unclean in itself, conflicting with the implication in Luke 2:23 that certain conditions make one holy or dedicated.
Romans 14:14: I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean. [unclean: Gr. common]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:19
States that circumcision is nothing, which contradicts the emphasis in Luke 2:23 on the importance of dedicating the firstborn as holy.
1 Corinthians 7:19: Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Emphasizes there is neither Jew nor Greek in Christ, suggesting a universalism contrary to the specific Jewish tradition referenced in Luke 2:23.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Paradox #1
The verse Luke 2:23 talks about how every firstborn male should be dedicated to the Lord, following Jewish law. A potential contradiction some people point out is with the New Testament teachings that through Jesus, traditional laws are fulfilled, and believers are not bound by the old Jewish laws the same way. This could seem inconsistent as it reflects adherence to the old law while the New Testament often emphasizes faith over law.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Luke 2:23 could relate to the concept that every firstborn male should be consecrated to the Lord. Scientifically, there is no biological basis for a spiritual status or obligation tied to birth order or gender, as these are cultural or religious concepts rather than scientific ones.