Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
This verse emphasizes that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances, whereas Matthew 23:26 instructs to clean the inside so that the outside may become clean.
1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
Contradiction with John 7:24
Here, the instruction is to judge not according to appearances but to judge righteous judgment, which focuses on internal purity instead of associating the external with the internal cleanliness.
John 7:24: Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.
Contradiction with James 2:26
This verse underscores that faith without works is dead, highlighting the importance of outward actions, contrary to the focus on internal cleansing in Matthew 23:26.
James 2:26: For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. [spirit: or, breath]
Contradiction with Isaiah 29:13
Criticizing those who honor God with their lips but have hearts far from Him, this emphasizes sincerity without addressing the cleansing of external actions mentioned in Matthew 23:26.
Isaiah 29:13: Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this verse could be seen as focusing on the inner self rather than external actions. It suggests that a pure heart is more important than outward appearances, which might conflict with religious practices that emphasize rituals and ceremonies. This difference can create tension between inward sincerity and external religious compliance.