Contradiction with Exodus 21:24
This verse advocates for the principle of "an eye for an eye," which is a stark contrast to Jesus' teaching of forgiveness in Matthew 18:22.
Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:21
Similar to Exodus 21:24, it prescribes "life for life, eye for eye," promoting retribution instead of the continual forgiveness advocated by Jesus.
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 Leviticus 24:20
Reiterates the law of retaliation, calling for equal retribution, which contradicts the repeated forgiveness highlighted in Matthew 18:22.
Leviticus 24:20: Breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him [again].
Contradiction with Psalm 137:9
This verse expresses a desire for revenge against one's enemies, which opposes the idea of limitless forgiveness.
Psalm 137:9: Happy [shall he be], that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones. [the stones: Heb. the rock]
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:29
Advises against saying, "I will do to him as he hath done to me," implicitly contradicting the idea of retaliation, but indirectly contradicts the instruction of forgiveness given in Matthew 18:22.
Proverbs 24:29: Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
Contradiction with Amos 1:11
Speaks of God's wrath and withholding of forgiveness, contrasting with the teaching of infinite forgiveness in Matthew 18:22.
Amos 1:11: Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away [the punishment] thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath for ever: [did cast...: Heb. corrupted his compassions]
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between the teaching in Matthew 18:22 about forgiving someone many times and other parts of the Bible that talk about judgment and consequences for wrongdoing. While Matthew emphasizes unlimited forgiveness, other scriptures might focus more on justice, which can seem like a conflicting message. However, many theologians explain that these aspects can be harmonized by understanding the context and purpose of each teaching.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict could be that while the verse encourages limitless forgiveness, it may conflict with setting healthy boundaries. Forgiving endlessly could be seen as enabling harmful behavior or not holding people accountable for their actions.