Contradictions and Paradoxes in Philippians 4:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Philippians 4:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Philippians 4:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Paul, this verse means that he has learned how to be happy and content, whether he has a lot or a little. He trusts God to help him no matter what happens.

Philippians 4:12: I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:25

Philippians 4:12 discusses contentment in all circumstances, whereas this verse advises against worry about material needs, suggesting a different focus on avoiding concern entirely.

Matthew 6:25: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Contradiction with Luke 12:15

While Philippians 4:12 emphasizes learning to be content with abundance or lack, this verse warns against all forms of greed, implying that focus should be entirely away from material wealth.

Luke 12:15: And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Contradiction with James 1:10

This verse implies a warning for those who are rich, saying they will fade away, which contrasts with finding contentment in wealth, as suggested in Philippians 4:12.

James 1:10: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

Contradiction with Proverbs 30:8-9

These verses express a desire neither for poverty nor riches but just enough, contrasting with Philippians 4:12's message of contentment regardless of abundance or lack.

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 Timothy 6:8-9

This suggests that having food and clothing, we should be content, warning against the desire to be rich, contrasting with the broader contentment in Philippians 4:12.

1 Timothy 6:8-9: And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
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