Matthew 10:36 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Matthew, sometimes people in your own family might not understand or agree with you, and they might become like enemies. Jesus said this to show that following Him might cause tough situations even with those we love.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:9

While Matthew 10:36 speaks of division within families, Matthew 5:9 blesses peacemakers, implying a focus on harmony and peace.

Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Contradiction with Ephesians 4:2-3

This verse encourages humility, patience, and making every effort to maintain unity in the Spirit, contrary to the division suggested in Matthew 10:36.

Ephesians 4:2-3: With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Contradiction with Colossians 3:13-14

These verses promote forgiveness and love to maintain perfect unity, clashing with the familial discord mentioned in Matthew 10:36.

Colossians 3:13-14: Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye. [quarrel: or, complaint]

Contradiction with Romans 12:18

Advises living peaceably with all people as much as possible, which contrasts with the prediction of familial enmity in Matthew 10:36.

Romans 12:18: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Contradiction with 1 John 4:20-21

Emphasizes loving one’s brother as a sign of loving God, contrasting the idea of family members as enemies in Matthew 10:36.

1 John 4:20-21: If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

Paradox #1

Matthew 10:36 mentions conflict and division among close relationships. Theological contradiction might arise when this is compared to other biblical teachings that emphasize peace, love, and unity, such as loving your neighbor and living in harmony. This could seem inconsistent with a message that involves conflict among family members.

Paradox #2

Some people see a contradiction in this verse because it suggests that family members might become enemies, which conflicts with teachings about love and unity within families. The message may seem inconsistent with the overall biblical emphasis on peace and reconciliation.