Contradiction with 1 John 1:9
While Proverbs 28:13 suggests hiding sins leads to failure, 1 John 1:9 encourages confession and forgiveness, promoting a merciful outcome instead of punishment.
1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:9
Proverbs 28:13 emphasizes confession, whereas Proverbs 17:9 indicates that concealing a transgression can foster love.
Proverbs 17:9: He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth [very] friends. [seeketh: or, procureth]
Contradiction with Matthew 6:6
Proverbs 28:13 underscores confessing openly, but Matthew 6:6 advocates secrecy in spiritual acts, including prayer, highlighting private devotion.
Matthew 6:6: But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
Contradiction with Psalm 32:3-5
Initially, Psalm 32:3-4 parallels Proverbs 28:13 regarding negative consequences of silence, but verse 5 contradicts by emphasizing confession for relief, rather than continuous concealment leading to hardship.
Psalm 32:3-5: When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.
Contradiction with Job 31:33
Proverbs 28:13 views hiding sin negatively, whereas in Job 31:33, the metaphorical comparison suggests that concealment is common, contrasting the emphasis on open confession.
Job 31:33: If I covered my transgressions as Adam, by hiding mine iniquity in my bosom: [as Adam: or, after the manner of men]
Paradox #1
Proverbs 28:13 emphasizes the importance of confessing and renouncing sins to receive mercy, which might seem to conflict with the notion of unconditional love and forgiveness. Some might view it as suggesting that mercy is conditional on confession, which could be seen as inconsistent with the idea that forgiveness should be freely given. However, this can often be interpreted as highlighting personal growth and accountability.