Contradiction with Luke 10:7
While Matthew 20:8 discusses paying the workers, Luke 10:7 emphasizes that the laborer is worthy of their reward, suggesting differentiated rewards.
Luke 10:7: And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 3:10
Contradicts by stating if anyone isn't willing to work, they should not eat, whereas Matthew 20:8 implies equal pay for varying work effort.
2 Thessalonians 3:10: For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
Contradiction with Matthew 25:29
Advocate that more should be given to those who have, whereas Matthew 20:8 implies equal payment regardless of work done.
Matthew 25:29: For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.
Contradiction with Proverbs 13:11
Suggests that wealth obtained by vanity shall diminish, contrasting Matthew 20:8's equal payment irrespective of effort.
Proverbs 13:11: Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. [by labour: Heb. with the hand]
Contradiction with Colossians 3:24-25
Emphasizes getting due rewards for deeds, which contrasts with the equal rewarding seen in Matthew 20:8.
Colossians 3:24-25: Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Paradox #1
The moral conflict in Matthew 20:8 arises from the idea that workers who worked different amounts of time all received the same pay. This can seem unfair to those who worked longer, as they might feel they deserved more. It challenges the human notion of fairness and raises questions about equality and reward.