Contradictions and Paradoxes in Matthew 18:33

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Matthew 18:33 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Matthew 18:33. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Matthew, Jesus is teaching that if someone is kind and forgiving to you, you should also be kind and forgiving to others. Just like how a king forgave a servant, the servant should also forgive and be nice to his friend.

Matthew 18:33: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

Contradiction with Proverbs 17:13

Proverbs states that evil will not depart from the house of someone who repays good with evil, contradicting the call for mercy and forgiveness in Matthew 18:33.

Proverbs 17:13: Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:24

This verse promotes the concept of retributive justice ("eye for eye, tooth for tooth") unlike the compassionate forgiveness highlighted in Matthew 18:33.

Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:31

Advises not to envy the oppressor or choose his ways, a stance that may oppose the mercy and kindness expected in Matthew 18:33.

Proverbs 3:31: Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways. [the oppressor: Heb. a man of violence]

Contradiction with Psalm 137:8-9

These verses speak of vengeance and retribution, in contrast with the forgiveness and compassion emphasized in Matthew 18:33.

Psalm 137:8-9: O daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed; happy [shall he be], that rewardeth thee as thou hast served us. [destroyed: Heb. wasted] [rewardeth...: Heb. recompenseth unto thee thy deed which thou didst to us]

Paradox #1

This verse might show a contradiction if someone argues that the call to show mercy or forgive is inconsistent with other biblical teachings on justice and punishment. While this verse emphasizes compassion and forgiveness, there are other parts of the Bible that focus on retribution and consequences for wrongdoing, which might seem conflicting to some.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information provided.