Contradiction with Exodus 21:24-25
These verses advocate for "eye for eye, tooth for tooth," suggesting retribution rather than love for one's neighbor.
Exodus 21:24-25: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Leviticus 24:19-20
Similar to Exodus, this law demands equal harm in return, contrasting with loving one’s neighbor.
Leviticus 24:19-20: And if a man cause a blemish in his neighbour; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 7:2
This verse instructs the Israelites to destroy their enemies completely, which contradicts loving others as oneself.
Deuteronomy 7:2: And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them:
Paradox #1
One potential theological conflict with Matthew 22:39 could arise when considering the command to "love your neighbor as yourself" alongside biblical passages that depict violence or judgment against others. Some might see a contradiction between loving others and actions in the Bible where harm is done to individuals or groups. This tension can raise questions about how to consistently apply the ethic of love in all circumstances, especially in contexts involving justice or divine judgment.
Paradox #2
This verse encourages loving others as oneself, which can conflict with situations where one's self-interest might harm others. Balancing personal needs with caring for others may sometimes create a contradiction.