Luke 6:27 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Luke, Jesus is teaching us to be kind to people, even if they are mean to us, and to always show love, even to our enemies. Jesus wants us to treat everyone nicely, no matter what.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:24

This verse advocates for "an eye for an eye" approach, which contradicts the message of loving your enemies in Luke 6:27.

Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:21

This verse emphasizes the concept of justice as retribution, conflicting with the instruction to love and do good to enemies in Luke 6:27.

Deuteronomy 19:21: And thine eye shall not pity; [but] life [shall go] for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:38

This verse mentions the traditional law of retaliation, "eye for eye," which contrasts with the counsel to show love toward adversaries in Luke 6:27.

Matthew 5:38: Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

Contradiction with Psalm 139:21-22

These verses express hatred toward enemies, which opposes the call to love enemies in Luke 6:27.

Psalm 139:21-22: Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22

Although partially aligning by advising kindness to enemies, it suggests doing so to 'heap coals of fire' on them, implying an ulterior motive which differs from genuine love in Luke 6:27.

Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Paradox #1

Some people point out a contradiction between this verse and instances in the Bible where violence or strict justice is shown, suggesting inconsistency in how enemies should be treated. Others see it as a conflict with human nature, which leans toward retaliation rather than love.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or conflict in Luke 6:27 might arise when considering self-defense or justice. The idea of loving and doing good to enemies can seem inconsistent with the natural human inclination to protect oneself or others from harm. Balancing these teachings with practical safety measures and justice can create a moral dilemma.