Contradiction with Exodus 21:24
This verse supports the concept of "an eye for an eye," focusing on retribution, while Matthew 9:13 emphasizes mercy over sacrifice.
Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:20-22
This passage deals with punishment and atonement through specific offerings, contrasting with the call for mercy in Matthew 9:13.
Leviticus 19:20-22: And whosoever lieth carnally with a woman, that [is] a bondmaid, betrothed to an husband, and not at all redeemed, nor freedom given her; she shall be scourged; they shall not be put to death, because she was not free. [betrothed...: or, abused by any: Heb. reproached by (or, for) man] [she shall...: or, they, etc: Heb. there shall be a scourging]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 28:15
Highlights the consequences for disobedience, focusing on punishment rather than mercy, which contrasts with the emphasis in Matthew 9:13.
Deuteronomy 28:15: But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:
Contradiction with Psalm 50:8-9
Discusses God's rejection of constant sacrifices when moral conduct is lacking, while Matthew 9:13 focuses on mercy instead of sacrifice.
Psalm 50:8-9: I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, [to have been] continually before me.
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:3
States that doing justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice, which contradicts the specific focus on mercy as highlighted in Matthew 9:13.
Proverbs 21:3: To do justice and judgment [is] more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
Criticizes empty ritual sacrifices, highlighting that God desires righteousness, which contrasts with the call for mercy in Matthew 9:13.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
Although it echoes the theme of mercy in Matthew 9:13, it highlights the gap between ritual and sincere love for God, offering a multidimensional contradiction.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Amos 5:21-22
Describes God's disdain for ritualistic sacrifices without justice, contrasting with the primary focus on mercy in Matthew 9:13.
Amos 5:21-22: I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. [in...: or, your holy days]
Contradiction with Micah 6:6-8
Questions the value of sacrifices and outlines that God requires justice, mercy, and humility, complicating the singular focus on mercy in Matthew 9:13.
Micah 6:6-8: Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, [and] bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? [of a...: Heb. sons of a year?]
Paradox #1
Matthew 9:13 emphasizes mercy over sacrifice. A possible contradiction could arise when comparing this idea to other parts of religious texts that focus heavily on rituals and sacrifices as important acts. This could lead to confusion about whether following rituals or prioritizing compassion and mercy is more important.