Contradiction with Matthew 12:33
Explains that a tree is known by its fruit, implying the possibility of transformation or change.
Matthew 12:33: Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by [his] fruit.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:21
Suggests that a wicked person can turn from their sins and become righteous, indicating change in nature.
Ezekiel 18:21: But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 5:17
Indicates that in Christ a person becomes a new creation, suggesting change from a sinful nature to a righteous one.
2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. [he is: or, let him be]
Contradiction with Luke 6:45
States a good man brings good things out of the good stored in his heart, implying a changeable nature based on what's within.
Luke 6:45: A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Contradiction with Romans 11:24
Describes wild branches being grafted into a good olive tree, suggesting change in nature or source.
Romans 11:24: For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural [branches], be graffed into their own olive tree?
Paradox #1
Some people might see a conflict between the idea that a good tree can't produce bad fruit and human experiences where good people sometimes make mistakes or do wrong things. It raises questions about whether a person's actions always truly reflect their character. However, many believe this verse emphasizes the importance of consistent behavior and inner goodness.
Paradox #2
Matthew 7:18 talks about how a good tree cannot produce bad fruit and a bad tree cannot produce good fruit. A possible contradiction could be when considering people, who can sometimes do both good and bad things regardless of their overall character. The idea that someone's actions are entirely one way might conflict with real-life experiences of human complexity.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in "Matthew 7:18" could be that in nature, a tree that is genetically bad or unhealthy is not capable of producing good fruit. However, with selective breeding or agricultural interventions, it's possible for a poor-quality tree to be improved to produce good fruit. This versatility in plant biology could be seen as an inconsistency with the idea that a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.
Paradox #4
Matthew 7:18 talks about trees producing good or bad fruit, symbolizing people's actions. A potential contradiction could arise when considering that people are complex and might perform both good and bad actions. This suggests that someone can sometimes act contrary to their nature, indicating a more complex moral assessment than simply categorizing people as wholly good or bad based on their actions.