Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17
This verse instructs not to place one's hope in uncertain riches but in God, which contradicts the idea of wealth being seen as a strong city.
1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20
Advises against storing earthly treasures, emphasizing storing treasures in heaven, which contrasts with wealth being viewed as a fortified city.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Contradiction with Proverbs 23:5
Warns that riches are fleeting and can disappear, contradicting the notion of wealth providing lasting security.
Proverbs 23:5: Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for [riches] certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. [set...: Heb. cause thine eyes to fly upon]
Contradiction with Luke 12:15
Cautions against covetousness, stating that life does not consist of possessions, opposing the view of wealth as a defense.
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 5:1-3
Describes the miseries of relying on riches, emphasizing their eventual decay, which is at odds with the image of riches as a safe haven.
James 5:1-3: Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].
Paradox #1
This verse talks about the false sense of security that wealth can bring, which might conflict with other parts of the Bible that emphasize trusting in God more than material possessions. Inconsistent messages about wealth could be seen as a contradiction for some readers.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 18:11 might be seen as conflicting with verses that emphasize trust in God over material wealth. While this verse points out that wealth can feel like a strong defense to the rich, other scriptures suggest that relying on wealth instead of God can be misguided. The contradiction lies in trusting wealth for security versus trusting God.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse could be that it suggests a false sense of security from wealth. Relying too much on money for safety might conflict with values of humility and trust in spiritual or moral strength.