Contradiction with James 5:12
This verse reinforces the teaching in Matthew 5:34, advising not to swear, either by heaven, or earth, or any other oath, to avoid falling into condemnation.
James 5:12: But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between this verse and other parts of the Bible where oaths are permitted or even encouraged, like in the Old Testament. This can seem inconsistent because one part advises against making oaths, while another accepts them. Different interpretations aim to resolve this by considering the context or intended message of each passage.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction with Matthew 5:34 could be regarding the act of swearing oaths. In some parts of the Bible, like in the Old Testament, taking oaths in God's name is permitted and sometimes even commanded. However, Matthew 5:34 advises against swearing oaths at all. This might seem contradictory because it presents a shift from an earlier teaching about the permissibility and sometimes necessity of oaths to a New Testament teaching advising against them.
Paradox #3
The contradiction involves different teachings about oaths in the Bible. In Matthew 5:34, it's suggested not to swear oaths at all, while other parts of the Bible allow or even encourage making oaths under certain circumstances, like in the Old Testament and in some of Paul's writings in the New Testament. This inconsistency can cause confusion about when, if ever, it is appropriate to swear an oath.
Paradox #4
Matthew 5:34 advises against making oaths, which could conflict with situations where promises or vows are necessary, like in court or personal commitments, suggesting a contradiction between religious teachings and societal practices.