Matthew 18:9 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book, Matthew, if something is leading you to do wrong things, it's better to stop doing it, even if it's hard. It's like saying it's better to be safe and good with less, than to have more and be in trouble.

Contradiction with Proverbs 4:25

This verse advises keeping one's eyes focused and straight ahead, which might contradict Matthew 18:9's implication of removing an eye for stumbling.

Proverbs 4:25: Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.

Contradiction with Psalm 121:3

This verse says that God will not let your foot slip, which could contradict the idea that one must take drastic measures like removing an eye to prevent stumbling.

Psalm 121:3: He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:19

This verse emphasizes the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit, suggesting that harming it by removing an eye contradicts caring for it as a sacred vessel.

1 Corinthians 6:19: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:21

This verse speaks about the body working together in unity, implying that removing a part like the eye would be contrary to maintaining this unity and harmony among body parts.

1 Corinthians 12:21: And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in this verse is the idea of physically harming oneself, like removing an eye, which seems contrary to the body's sanctity and the idea of caring for God's creation. The verse appears to endorse extreme measures to avoid sin, which raises questions about the balance between metaphorical interpretation and literal action in biblical teachings.

Paradox #2

One possible contradiction could be the idea of self-harm or mutilation. Matthew 18:9 suggests a drastic action to avoid sin, which could be seen as conflicting with the belief that the body is a temple that should be treated with care. Some might see this as inconsistent because other teachings generally discourage harming oneself.

Paradox #3

The contradiction or conflict in Matthew 18:9 could be that it suggests a drastic action to avoid sin, which might be seen as extreme or harsh. It challenges the idea of bodily integrity, as it implies harming oneself for a moral or spiritual benefit. This can conflict with the belief that the human body should be respected and preserved as it is.