Contradiction with 1 John 4:18
This verse states that "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear," which can seem to contradict the idea of fearing God presented in Psalms 89:7, as it emphasizes love driving away fear.
1 John 4:18: There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 1:7
This verse mentions that "God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." It suggests that fear is not from God, which contrasts with the reverence and fear noted in Psalms 89:7.
2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Contradiction with Romans 8:15
Here it states, "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." This implies a relationship with God characterized by intimacy and closeness, rather than fear.
Romans 8:15: For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
Contradiction with James 2:23
This verse notes, "And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God." This intimate friendship with God contrasts with the reverential fear described in Psalms 89:7.
James 2:23: And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
Contradiction with Hebrews 4:16
It advises believers to "come boldly unto the throne of grace," which may seem to contradict the idea of fear and reverence in Psalms 89:7 by encouraging boldness in approaching God.
Hebrews 4:16: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Paradox #1
Psalms 89:7 highlights the reverence and fear due to God among the assembly of holy beings, emphasizing God's greatness and awe-inspiring presence. A possible moral conflict or inconsistency could arise when considering the broader biblical theme of God's loving and approachable nature, as portrayed in other parts of the Bible. Some might find tension between viewing God as both fearsome and loving, which can create confusion about how to properly relate to or understand God's character.