Contradiction with Romans 12:18
This verse encourages living peaceably with all men, which contradicts the act of driving out sellers in Matthew 21:12.
Romans 12:18: If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
This verse advises not to resist evil and to turn the other cheek, contradicting the confrontation in Matthew 21:12.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Luke 6:27-29
These verses promote loving enemies and offering the other cheek, conflicting with the aggressive action taken in Matthew 21:12.
Luke 6:27-29: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with James 3:17
This verse describes wisdom as peaceable and gentle, contrasting with the disruption caused in Matthew 21:12.
James 3:17: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [partiality: or, wrangling]
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:15
This verse advises not to render evil for evil, which contrasts with the aggressive approach in Matthew 21:12.
1 Thessalonians 5:15: See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
This verse suggests that a soft answer turns away wrath, whereas Jesus’ actions in Matthew 21:12 were forceful.
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Paradox #1
The potential theological conflict is that Jesus' actions in this verse might seem inconsistent with his teachings about love, forgiveness, and peace. Clearing the temple could appear aggressive and disruptive, which might not align with the idea of turning the other cheek or loving one's neighbor. However, some argue that this action illustrates righteous anger and a stand against corruption and exploitation.
Paradox #2
Matthew 21:12 describes Jesus driving out the money changers from the temple. Some might see a contradiction here because Jesus, who taught love and peace, displayed anger. This could seem inconsistent with his teachings on forgiveness and patience. However, this action is often interpreted as a defense of the sacredness and purity of worship spaces, showing righteous anger against exploitation and disrespect.
Paradox #3
One possible contradiction or inconsistency with the account in Matthew 21:12 is how it aligns with similar stories in other Gospels, specifically the timing of the event. In Mark's Gospel, the cleansing of the temple occurs after Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, while in John's Gospel, a similar event happens at the beginning of Jesus' ministry. This raises questions about when this event took place in the timeline of Jesus' life.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in Matthew 21:12 could be seen as Jesus, who is often seen as a figure of peace and love, using forceful actions to drive people out of the temple. This could seem inconsistent with His teachings on forgiveness and non-violence.