Matthew 21:39 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Matthew, this story shows how people did something very wrong by hurting and killing someone who was sent to help them. It's like a warning about how some people didn't listen to or accept Jesus, even though He was there to help and guide them.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

While Matthew 21:39 involves the killing of the heir, Exodus 20:13 states "Thou shalt not kill," which directly contradicts the act of killing.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Matthew 21:39 describes taking vengeance by killing the heir, but Romans 12:19 teaches against taking revenge, saying, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Proverbs 24:29

Matthew 21:39 involves retribution, while Proverbs 24:29 advises against saying, "I will do so to him as he hath done to me."

Proverbs 24:29: Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

Contradiction with Leviticus 19:18

Leviticus 19:18 commands, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself," which contradicts the violent rejection seen in Matthew 21:39.

Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

Matthew 21:39 depicts an act of violence, whereas Matthew 5:39 teaches, "Resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also."

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 Romans 13:10

Matthew 21:39 shows harm being done, while Romans 13:10 states, "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour," advocating against such actions.

Romans 13:10: Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love [is] the fulfilling of the law.

Paradox #1

The contradiction in this verse might arise from the violent action depicted. Some could argue it conflicts with the Bible’s broader teachings on love and forgiveness. The act described could seem inconsistent with the message of compassion and turning away from harm, creating tension between justice and mercy.