Malachi 1:9 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Malachi, this verse tells us that people should ask God to be kind to them because they haven't been following His ways. Malachi is reminding them that it's important to please God, not just seek His favor without changing their actions.

Contradiction with James 1:6-7

Emphasizes that one must ask in faith without doubt, whereas Malachi 1:9 suggests seeking God's favor could be unearned.

James 1:6-7: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Contradiction with Proverbs 15:29

States that the Lord is far from the wicked, whereas Malachi 1:9 implies God may grant favor regardless of their actions.

Proverbs 15:29: The LORD [is] far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

Contradiction with Isaiah 59:2

Highlights how sin separates people from God, contrasting with Malachi 1:9's indication that favor can still be sought.

Isaiah 59:2: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid [his] face from you, that he will not hear. [have hid: or, have made him hide]

Contradiction with Micah 3:4

Explains that God will hide His face from those who do evil deeds, contradicting the idea in Malachi 1:9 that supplication alone could be effective.

Micah 3:4: Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.

Contradiction with John 9:31

Asserts that God does not listen to sinners, whereas Malachi 1:9 suggests that intercession might be considered by God.

John 9:31: Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.

Contradiction with Psalm 66:18

Indicates that harboring sin prevents God from listening, opposed to Malachi 1:9's notion of appeasement.

Psalm 66:18: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear [me]:

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in that verse could be the tension between asking for God's favor while offering insincere or inadequate sacrifices. It challenges the idea of expecting blessings without genuine devotion or effort. However, the verse might not be directly conflicting but highlights the expectation of sincerity in faith.