Contradictions and Paradoxes in Matthew 5:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Matthew 5:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Matthew 5:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Matthew, be very happy and excited because there is a big reward waiting for you in heaven. Other good people in the past were also treated badly, just like you might be now.

Matthew 5:12: Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great [is] your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Contradiction with Luke 12:19

This verse emphasizes finding joy and comfort in earthly pleasures and possessions, whereas Matthew 5:12 focuses on rejoicing due to heavenly rewards despite earthly hardships.

Luke 12:19: And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, [and] be merry.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:13

This verse suggests taking pleasure in earthly labor and its fruits as God's gift, in contrast to Matthew 5:12 which speaks of joy from heavenly rewards despite earthly suffering.

Ecclesiastes 3:13: And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it [is] the gift of God.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20

While these verses highlight storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, there is a contrast in emphasis: Matthew 6:19-20 stresses a deliberate choice in where to store treasures, whereas Matthew 5:12 speaks of rejoicing because of heavenly rewards during persecution.

Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

Contradiction with James 4:9

This verse advises one to grieve, mourn, and weep over sins, which contradicts the encouragement in Matthew 5:12 to rejoice and be exceeding glad despite persecution.

James 4:9: Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and [your] joy to heaviness.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 15:32

This verse suggests living for today and indulging in earthly pleasures if there is no resurrection, whereas Matthew 5:12 assures joy in heavenly rewards despite earthly suffering.

1 Corinthians 15:32: If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. [after...: or, to speak after the manner of men]

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in Matthew 5:12 could be the idea of rejoicing in persecution, as it might conflict with the human instinct to avoid suffering or seek justice. While some see it as a call to maintain faith and find joy despite adversity, others might view it as a problematic endorsement of enduring unjust treatment without resistance.

← Matthew 5:11
Share
Matthew 5:13 →
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.