Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse instructs "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts Matthew 23:35 referring to the killing of prophets and righteous individuals.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse advises "avenge not yourselves" and "give place unto wrath," contrasting with Matthew 23:35’s portrayal of vengeance for blood shed.
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 Ezekiel 18:20
This verse states "the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father," which contradicts the idea of responsibility transferred through generations as implied in Matthew 23:35.
Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse says, "Love your enemies," which contrasts with the theme of retribution found in Matthew 23:35.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:30
This verse says, "Vengeance belongeth unto me," highlighting God's role in vengeance, compared to the human accountability described in Matthew 23:35.
Hebrews 10:30: For we know him that hath said, Vengeance [belongeth] unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this verse might be the mention of "Zechariah son of Berechiah" being killed, as it potentially confuses two different figures: Zechariah son of Jehoiada, who was killed in the temple, and Zechariah son of Berechiah, who was a prophet but had no biblical account of being murdered. This mix-up has led to debates about the correct identity.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in this verse might arise from the idea of collective punishment or holding people accountable for the actions of their ancestors. It raises questions about fairness, as individuals may be seen as responsible for deeds they did not personally commit.
Paradox #3
Matthew 23:35 references the murder of Abel and Zechariah. Some people point out a potential contradiction or inconsistency regarding the identity of Zechariah. In the Old Testament, Zechariah the son of Jehoiada was killed in the temple, but in Matthew, he is called the son of Berechiah, which could refer to a different Zechariah. This causes confusion about which Zechariah is meant.