Contradiction with Ephesians 6:5
This verse instructs servants to be obedient to their masters, which conflicts with treating a servant as a beloved brother as suggested in Philemon 1:16.
Ephesians 6:5: Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Contradiction with Colossians 3:22
It emphasizes obedience of servants to their masters in contrast to the equal relationship mentioned in Philemon 1:16.
Colossians 3:22: Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:1
Advises that servants should honor their masters to avoid blasphemy against God's doctrine, differing from treating them as equals as in Philemon 1:16.
1 Timothy 6:1: Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and [his] doctrine be not blasphemed.
Contradiction with Titus 2:9
Encourages servants to please their masters well in all things, opposing the concept of servitude reform in Philemon 1:16.
Titus 2:9: [Exhort] servants to be obedient unto their own masters, [and] to please [them] well in all [things]; not answering again; [answering...: or, gainsaying]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:18
Advises servants to be subject to their masters with all fear, even to the harsh, which contrasts with the equality suggested in Philemon 1:16.
1 Peter 2:18: Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Philemon 1:16 could relate to the concept of slavery. While the verse encourages a more equal and brotherly relationship between a master and a slave, it does not explicitly condemn the institution of slavery itself. This might seem inconsistent with the broader Christian teaching of love and equality among all people.
Paradox #2
The potential conflict in Philemon 1:16 could arise from differing views on slavery. In historical contexts, some people used parts of the Bible to justify slavery, while others used it to argue for equality and freedom. This verse can be seen as recognizing a slave as a brother, which might contradict the acceptance of slavery in historical societies.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict could arise from the idea of viewing someone as both a "slave" and a "brother." This can be seen as inconsistent because it suggests a hierarchy while also promoting equality, creating tension between social roles and personal relationships.