Contradiction with Proverbs 11:24
Matthew 5:42 encourages giving to those who ask, while Proverbs 11:24 suggests that withholding can lead to increased wealth.
Proverbs 11:24: There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty.
Contradiction with Proverbs 22:26-27
Advises against being surety for debts of others, contradicting the open-handedness of Matthew 5:42.
Proverbs 22:26-27: Be not thou [one] of them that strike hands, [or] of them that are sureties for debts.
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 3:10
States that if someone does not work, they should not eat, which contradicts the unconditional giving in Matthew 5:42.
2 Thessalonians 3:10: For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
Paradox #1
One potential theological inconsistency with the message in Matthew 5:42 is the challenge it presents to the concept of personal responsibility and stewardship. The verse might be seen as promoting unlimited giving without discernment, which could lead to conflicts with passages that emphasize wise management of resources and avoiding enabling harmful behavior. Different interpretations could lead to differing views on how to balance generosity with responsible giving.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction with the idea of being wise and not allowing others to take advantage of you. In other parts of the Bible, there is advice on being prudent and not squandering what you have. The challenge is balancing generosity with discernment.
Paradox #3
One potential contradiction related to the verse is the challenge of reconciling the instruction to give freely with the economic realities of ancient times, where resources were often scarce, and people needed to ensure their survival. Balancing generosity with the need for financial stability could create tension or conflict in interpretation and application.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict might be that always giving to those who ask or lending without expecting repayment could be seen as encouraging dependency or irresponsible behavior. This might conflict with the idea of fostering independence and accountability.