Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
Instead of retaliation or personal retribution, this verse teaches the principle of turning the other cheek, suggesting a more passive response to wrongdoing.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:11
This verse states that it is not what enters the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out, implying that internal actions and thoughts are more critical than external actions.
Matthew 15:11: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Contradiction with Romans 12:21
Encourages overcoming evil with good rather than avoiding evil by drastic measures; focuses on positive action rather than removal or harm to oneself.
Romans 12:21: Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:19
Highlights that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, suggesting we should protect and honor it rather than harm it.
1 Corinthians 6:19: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Contradiction with Philippians 4:8
Emphasizes thinking on good, pure, and positive things, focusing on inner purity of thought rather than physical self-harm in response to sin.
Philippians 4:8: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things. [honest: or, venerable]
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:32
Encourages kindness, compassion, and forgiveness rather than resorting to severe actions like self-harm to avoid sin.
Ephesians 4:32: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Paradox #1
Some people find a contradiction in Matthew 5:29 when they consider the literal interpretation of the verse against the overall message of forgiveness and love in the Bible. The instruction in this verse seems extreme compared to the teachings on mercy, grace, and the value of the human body as God’s creation. It appears inconsistent with the idea that sin and redemption are matters of the heart and mind rather than physical actions alone.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction with the concept in this verse lies in its metaphorical suggestion of self-harm to avoid sin, which conflicts with modern medical and psychological understandings. Self-harm is recognized as a serious health issue and not a recommended or effective way to address moral or ethical problems. Instead, modern science advocates for mental health treatments and constructive behavioral changes.
Paradox #3
Matthew 5:29 suggests taking extreme measures to avoid sin, which can be seen as a contradiction because it might seem to encourage self-harm, which contradicts the value of preserving and respecting one's own body. People could find this inconsistent with the broader moral teaching that one should care for themselves.