Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
This verse emphasizes doing the will of the Father to enter the kingdom of heaven, which can contradict the view if one interprets Matthew 21:31 as focusing on simply the outcome rather than genuine intent to do God's will.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with Romans 3:28
This verse focuses on justification by faith without deeds, which might seem contradictory if one interprets Matthew 21:31 as placing emphasis on actions over faith.
Romans 3:28: Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Contradiction with James 2:24
This verse asserts that a person is justified by works and not by faith only, which might contradict if one interprets the focus of Matthew 21:31 to be on belief over works.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses emphasize salvation by grace through faith, not works, potentially contradicting if Matthew 21:31 is interpreted as emphasizing actions as the primary factor for kingdom entry.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Matthew 21:31 could be seen in the way it challenges the idea that those who appear to be righteous and say they will do the right thing are not necessarily the ones who truly are righteous. It suggests that actions speak louder than words, which might conflict with the belief that faith alone is sufficient for righteousness. This can create tension between the value of actions versus declarations of faith.