Contradictions and Paradoxes in Luke 3:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Luke 3:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Luke 3:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Luke, when the soldiers asked John the Baptist what they should do to be good, he told them not to hurt others or lie about people, and to be happy with what they are paid.

Luke 3:14: And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your wages. [Do violence...: or, Put no man in fear] [wages: or, allowance]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

This verse instructs to turn the other cheek, emphasizing non-resistance to evil, which may contradict Luke 3:14's directive to soldiers involving just and fair treatment.

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

This verse warns that all who take up the sword shall perish with the sword, contradicting the military context assumed in Luke 3:14.

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 James 4:1

This verse suggests that wars and fighting come from lusts within, potentially contradicting the idea of justly serving as a soldier in Luke 3:14.

James 4:1: From whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts that war in your members? [fightings: or, brawlings] [lusts: or, pleasures]

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

This prophetic vision of beating swords into plowshares emphasizes an end to war, potentially contrasting with the acceptance of military roles in Luke 3:14.

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 12:17

This verse teaches to recompense no man evil for evil and live peaceably with all, possibly conflicting with the practical military guidance in Luke 3:14.

Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in Luke 3:14 arises when soldiers are advised to be content with their wages and refrain from extorting money. This can conflict with their role, as soldiers often relied on additional income from plunder in ancient times. Balancing contentment with wages and following military practices of the era could create tension.

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