Contradiction with Matthew 6:33
This verse emphasizes prioritizing spiritual wealth with the promise of worldly gain as a secondary benefit, suggesting worldly gain can accompany spiritual pursuit.
Matthew 6:33: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:22
This verse implies that God’s blessings can bring wealth without sorrow, suggesting a positive view of gaining wealth.
Proverbs 10:22: The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:19
This verse acknowledges wealth and possessions as gifts from God, indicating a blessing rather than a potential loss.
Ecclesiastes 5:19: Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this [is] the gift of God.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 28:11-12
These verses describe material abundance as a blessing for obedience, implying that gaining the world can be aligned with spiritual favor.
Deuteronomy 28:11-12: And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee. [in goods: or, for good] [body: Heb. belly]
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17
This verse advises the wealthy to trust in God, not riches, and states that God provides us with everything for our enjoyment, suggesting wealth isn’t inherently negative.
1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could be the tension between pursuing worldly success and material wealth versus prioritizing spiritual and moral values. It suggests that gaining worldly possessions or status may come at the expense of one's true self or soul, leading to a potential conflict between external achievements and internal fulfillment.