Contradictions and Paradoxes in Philippians 3:13

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Philippians 3:13 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Philippians 3:13. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, he's saying to his friends that he doesn’t think he knows everything yet, but he’s trying hard to let go of past mistakes and focus on what’s ahead. He's like a runner looking forward to the finish line, not looking back.

Philippians 3:13: Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

Contradiction with Luke 9:62

This verse emphasizes the importance of not looking back, which aligns with Philippians 3:13, but the contradiction comes in the sense of total commitment to moving forward without reflecting on the past, contradicting the notion of learning from past experiences.

Luke 9:62: And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:9

Implying there is nothing new under the sun suggests a cyclical nature of life that contradicts the idea of focusing solely on future goals without regard for past occurrences.

Ecclesiastes 1:9: The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.

Contradiction with Galatians 6:4

Encourages self-reflection and taking pride in one's past work, which could be seen as contradictory to the idea of forgetting what is behind as suggested in Philippians 3:13.

Galatians 6:4: But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

Contradiction with Hebrews 12:1

Encourages letting go of past sins, which aligns with moving forward, but it also emphasizes the importance of endurance, possibly suggesting a focus on past struggles to fuel future perseverance.

Hebrews 12:1: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 10:11

Reminds believers to learn from the past examples, which can contradict the notion of forgetting past events encouraged by Philippians 3:13.

1 Corinthians 10:11: Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. [ensamples: or, types]
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.