Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
This verse states that not everyone who calls Jesus 'Lord' will enter the kingdom of heaven, implying that actions alone, like those mentioned in Matthew 25:40, are not enough.
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 James 2:14-17
These verses argue that faith without works is dead, whereas Matthew 25:40 implies that actions toward "the least of these" are sufficient for righteousness.
James 2:14-17: What [doth it] profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Contradiction with Isaiah 64:6
This verse states that all our righteous acts are as filthy rags, contradicting the value of righteous acts depicted in Matthew 25:40.
Isaiah 64:6: But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Contradiction with Romans 3:28
This verse emphasizes justification by faith apart from deeds, while Matthew 25:40 emphasizes the importance of deeds toward others.
Romans 3:28: Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses highlight that salvation is by grace through faith and not by works, contrasting with the works-focused message of Matthew 25:40.
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 or conflict could arise if the verse implies that salvation is based on good works alone, potentially conflicting with other biblical teachings that emphasize salvation through faith. Some interpretations reconcile this by suggesting that true faith naturally results in good works.
Paradox #2
Some people point out a potential inconsistency in interpreting this verse. It emphasizes helping those in need as if you are helping a higher purpose, which is considered moral. However, the conflict arises when people only perform good deeds to fulfill religious obligations or gain rewards, rather than out of genuine compassion or altruism. This could create a contradiction between acts done with sincerity and those done for self-interest or external validation.