Contradiction with Mark 7:18-19
This passage suggests that external things, like food and containers, do not defile a person, in contrast to the emphasis on an object's exposure being defiling in Numbers 19:15.
Mark 7:18-19: Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?
Contradiction with Acts 10:14-15
Here, Peter is told that what God has cleansed, no person should call common or unclean, conflicting with the ritual impurity described for uncovered vessels in Numbers 19:15.
Acts 10:14-15: But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:11
Jesus explains that it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man, but what comes out of it, challenging the focus on unclean objects in Numbers 19:15.
Matthew 15:11: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Paradox #1
Numbers 19:15 talks about ritual purity laws. A potential theological conflict might arise when comparing these ritual purity laws with New Testament teachings. In the New Testament, especially with the teachings of Jesus, there is an emphasis on inner purity and faith rather than strict adherence to ceremonial laws. This shift could be seen as a contradiction between the strict Old Testament laws and the more flexible interpretations of the New Testament.
Paradox #2
Numbers 19:15 could be seen as promoting ritual purity laws that might conflict with the idea of universal acceptance and love. While purity laws emphasize separation from that which is considered unclean, the broader message of love and acceptance may feel at odds with these exclusions. This distinction can create a tension between following specific rules and embracing all people equally.