Contradiction with Romans 3:23
This verse highlights that all have sinned, contradicting Psalms 18:24, which suggests being rewarded for righteousness.
Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:20
This verse states there is no righteous person on earth, contradicting the implication of Psalms 18:24 of personal righteousness.
Ecclesiastes 7:20: For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Contradiction with Isaiah 64:6
It explains that all righteous acts are like filthy rags, suggesting that personal righteousness does not merit reward, contrary to Psalms 18:24.
Isaiah 64:6: But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Contradiction with Romans 3:10
This verse affirms that no one is righteous, going against Psalms 18:24's implication of personal righteousness earning a reward.
Romans 3:10: As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Paradox #1
The verse in question talks about God rewarding individuals based on their righteousness or the cleanliness of their hands. A potential contradiction or conflict could arise when comparing this to the New Testament teachings on grace, such as in Ephesians 2:8-9, which emphasize that salvation and favor from God are gifts not earned by works. This could seem inconsistent if one interprets the Psalm as suggesting that divine rewards are solely based on personal righteousness, potentially conflicting with the idea of grace.
Paradox #2
Psalms 18:24 might present a contradiction for some because it can be interpreted as suggesting that being good or righteous results in receiving God's favor. This could conflict with the idea of unconditional divine love or grace, which is not based on human actions or deservingness. Some may see a tension between earning God's favor through actions and receiving it freely regardless of actions.