Contradiction with Romans 3:28
This verse emphasizes justification by faith without the deeds of the law, whereas Matthew 5:20 emphasizes a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, which can be interpreted as adhering to the law.
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 stress that salvation is by grace through faith and not by works, which can be seen as contradicting the call for an exceeding righteousness in Matthew 5:20.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Contradiction with Galatians 2:16
This verse states that a person is justified not by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, contrasting with Matthew 5:20's implication of upholding and exceeding legalistic righteousness.
Galatians 2:16: Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Contradiction with Philippians 3:9
Paul's expression of being found in Christ, not having his own righteousness from the law, contrasts with the greater righteousness mentioned in Matthew 5:20.
Philippians 3:9: And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Contradiction with Titus 3:5-7
The emphasis on salvation not by works of righteousness but according to God's mercy can be seen as opposing the call to exceed Pharisaic righteousness in Matthew 5:20.
Titus 3:5-7: Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Paradox #1
Matthew 5:20 could be seen as contradictory because it implies that one's righteousness must surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees to enter the kingdom of heaven. This might seem inconsistent with other teachings in the Bible that emphasize faith and grace over works. While this verse stresses the importance of righteous living, other parts of the New Testament, like the writings of Paul, focus on salvation through faith. This can create a tension between faith and actions as paths to righteousness.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction in Matthew 5:20 because it talks about needing greater righteousness than the religious leaders to enter the kingdom of heaven. This seems to go against the idea that faith, not works, is what's needed for salvation, which is a central teaching in other parts of the New Testament, like in Paul's letters.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could be the challenge of following strict religious rules while also embodying true righteousness. Some might see a conflict between adhering to external rules and developing a sincere, internal moral character. This can lead to tension between obeying laws and fostering genuine virtue.