Contradiction with Matthew 5:16
This verse encourages letting your good deeds be visible to others, contrasting with Matthew 6:3's message of performing acts in secret.
Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:12
It suggests that good works should be seen by others to glorify God, differing from the principle of secrecy in Matthew 6:3.
1 Peter 2:12: Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. [whereas: or, wherein]
Contradiction with Proverbs 27:2
Advises letting another praise you, indirectly contradicting the notion of secrecy by implying recognition by others.
Proverbs 27:2: Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 4:12
Encourages setting an example in good works, which may imply public knowledge, unlike the hidden acts in Matthew 6:3.
1 Timothy 4:12: Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Paradox #1
Matthew 6:3 highlights the importance of giving in secret. A potential contradiction could arise if this idea is compared with other parts of the Bible that seem to encourage public acts of faith as a testament to belief, like letting one's light shine before others. The inconsistency lies in balancing the call to public witness with the call to private humility.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict might arise when considering the idea of giving or doing good deeds in secret, as encouraged in this verse, versus the human tendency to seek recognition or acknowledgment for good actions. People often struggle with wanting to feel appreciated or praised, which can conflict with the teaching to keep such acts private.