Contradiction with Proverbs 3:6
While Malachi 2:8 discusses turning away from God's path, Proverbs 3:6 advises acknowledging God to have paths directed properly, contradicting the act of straying.
Proverbs 3:6: In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:13-14
Malachi 2:8 mentions departing from the way, whereas Matthew 7:13-14 encourages entering through the narrow gate, implying staying true to the path.
Matthew 7:13-14: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [strait: or, narrow]
Contradiction with John 14:6
Jesus claims to be the way in John 14:6, contradicting the turning away from the way as noted in Malachi 2:8.
John 14:6: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Contradiction with Psalm 25:4-5
Malachi 2:8 talks about departing from the way, contrasting with Psalm 25:4-5, where guidance in God's truth and path is sought.
Psalm 25:4-5: Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
Contradiction with Isaiah 30:21
Malachi 2:8 refers to not keeping the way, whereas Isaiah 30:21 speaks of hearing God's guidance telling people the way to walk.
Isaiah 30:21: And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
Contradiction with Proverbs 16:9
Malachi 2:8 addresses straying from God's way, conflicting with Proverbs 16:9, which emphasizes God directing one's steps.
Proverbs 16:9: A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
Contradiction with Hebrews 12:13
The verse in Malachi speaks of causing others to stumble out of the way, while Hebrews 12:13 advises making straight paths for healing instead of stumbling.
Hebrews 12:13: And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. [straight: or, even]
Paradox #1
Malachi 2:8 mentions priests turning away from God's path and causing others to stumble. A potential doctrinal conflict might arise when considering the idea that religious leaders are expected to guide faithfully, yet in this verse, they fail in their duties. This could seem inconsistent with the notion that God equips and supports those He calls to lead. Additionally, it may raise questions about the reliability of human leaders in religious contexts.
Paradox #2
Malachi 2:8 deals with the priests' failure to follow God's ways and the resulting consequences for their disobedience. A potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise when comparing how different religious groups interpret the role and actions of priests throughout history. Various denominations or religious traditions may have differing views on what constitutes rightful adherence to God's laws, leading to conflicting interpretations when looking back at historical priesthood practices. This inconsistency may reflect in how different communities understand the responsibilities and failings of religious leaders.
Paradox #3
Malachi 2:8 addresses issues of corruption and failure among religious leaders. The contradiction or conflict here could be how these leaders, who are supposed to guide and uphold moral and spiritual laws, are actually failing in their duties and leading others astray. This inconsistency lies in the expectation of their role versus their actual actions.