Contradiction with Matthew 5:16
This verse encourages letting your light shine before others, seemingly promoting a form of public demonstration of faith, which contrasts with Matthew 6:5's warning against praying publicly for show.
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 John 11:41-42
Jesus prays aloud in public with thanks to God, suggesting the validity of public prayer, countering the idea that public prayer is hypocritical as implied in Matthew 6:5.
John 11:41-42: Then they took away the stone [from the place] where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up [his] eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:17
This verse urges believers to pray without ceasing, implying that prayer could be constant and sometimes public, which might conflict with the criticism of public prayer in Matthew 6:5.
1 Thessalonians 5:17: Pray without ceasing.
Contradiction with Acts 2:46-47
The early Christians met together continually in public places for prayer and worship, which can be seen as contrasting with the private approach to prayer commended in Matthew 6:5.
Acts 2:46-47: And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, [from...: or, at home]
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 2:8
This verse advises that men pray everywhere lifting holy hands, indicating prayer in all places, including public settings, which contradicts the private nature suggested in Matthew 6:5.
1 Timothy 2:8: I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency with Matthew 6:5 could relate to the practice of public prayer in religious communities during Jesus' time. While this verse discourages public displays of prayer for attention, historical records indicate that public prayer was a common and respected practice in Jewish communities. This could seem inconsistent with the cultural and religious practices of that era.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Matthew 6:5 could be seen in the way that some people publicly display their faith to gain attention, which contradicts the message of humility and sincerity. While faith is meant to be genuine and personal, showing it off for recognition conflicts with the core values of honesty and modesty.