Contradictions and Paradoxes in Philemon 1:21

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Philemon 1:21 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Philemon 1:21. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, he trusts his friend to do the right thing and believes he will be even kinder and more helpful than he's asked to be. Paul feels sure that his friend will do extra good things out of love and kindness.

Philemon 1:21: Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Philemon 1:21 assumes compliance and agreement, whereas Matthew 5:44 emphasizes loving and blessing those who might oppose or be against us.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Luke 6:29

Philemon 1:21 assumes likelihood of obedience, but Luke 6:29 instructs to offer even to those who take from us, suggesting expected non-compliance.

Luke 6:29: And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also.

Contradiction with Romans 12:17

Philemon 1:21 implies a level of expected goodwill, whereas Romans 12:17 warns against repaying evil, which assumes possible malevolent actions.

Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:7

Philemon 1:21 assumes trust in another's action, while 1 Corinthians 6:7 advises accepting wrong, preparing for failure in expected behavior.

1 Corinthians 6:7: Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather [suffer yourselves to] be defrauded?

Contradiction with James 4:1

Philemon 1:21 implies peace and agreement, yet James 4:1 highlights conflicts and strife, suggesting inherent challenges and contradictions.

James 4:1: From whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts that war in your members? [fightings: or, brawlings] [lusts: or, pleasures]

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse might relate to the underlying issue of Paul writing to Philemon about Onesimus, a runaway slave. There is a tension between Christian teachings of love and equality and the acceptance of social norms like slavery at the time. While Paul is appealing for kindness and forgiveness for Onesimus, he does not directly condemn the institution of slavery, which can seem inconsistent with the broader message of love and equality in Christianity.

← Philemon 1:20
Share
Philemon 1:22 →
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.