Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:14
While Philippians 4:11 emphasizes contentment in all situations, Ecclesiastes 1:14 highlights the futility and vexation of spirit found in all efforts under the sun, suggesting a lack of fulfillment and contentment.
Ecclesiastes 1:14: I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.
Contradiction with Proverbs 30:8-9
Philippians 4:11 is about learning to be content regardless of circumstances, whereas Proverbs 30:8-9 speaks to a desire for moderation in wealth to avoid falling into sin, showing discontentment with extreme situations.
Proverbs 30:8-9: Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: [convenient...: Heb. of my allowance]
Contradiction with 1 Kings 21:4
The experience of Ahab sulking and displeased with the refusal of Naboth to sell his vineyard contrasts with the message of being content as advised in Philippians 4:11.
1 Kings 21:4: And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers. And he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:10
Although 2 Corinthians 12:10 speaks of contentment, it emphasizes finding strength in weaknesses and challenges, whereas Philippians 4:11 separately stresses a self-sufficient contentment in any state.
2 Corinthians 12:10: Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Contradiction with Psalm 73:3
While Philippians 4:11 focuses on contentment, Psalm 73:3 reveals an instance of envying the prosperity of the wicked, illustrating a struggle with discontentment.
Psalm 73:3: For I was envious at the foolish, [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
Contradiction with Job 10:1
Job’s lament of loathing his life and expressing bitterness stands in contrast with Philippians 4:11’s theme of finding contentment regardless of circumstances.
Job 10:1: My soul is weary of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. [weary...: or, cut off while I live]
Contradiction with Habakkuk 1:2-3
The prophet’s complaint about violence and injustice indicates a sense of dissatisfaction and struggle, contrary to the idea of contentment in Philippians 4:11.
Habakkuk 1:2-3: O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! [even] cry out unto thee [of] violence, and thou wilt not save!
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or conflict in Philippians 4:11 could be that the verse encourages contentment in all situations, which might be seen as contradictory for those who strive for change or improvement in unjust or difficult circumstances. If everyone were content at all times, it could imply a passive acceptance of situations that may actually need action or change.