Contradiction with Matthew 16:18
Jesus mentions that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church, suggesting permanence and resilience, contrasting with the destruction of the whore by her allies in Revelation 17:16.
Matthew 16:18: And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [Peter: this name signifies a rock]
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:11
This verse encourages believers to build each other up, which contrasts with the idea in Revelation 17:16 where entities turn against and destroy the whore.
1 Thessalonians 5:11: Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. [comfort: or, exhort]
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:3
Speaks about maintaining the unity of the Spirit, contrasting with the internal conflict and destruction described in Revelation 17:16.
Ephesians 4:3: Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Contradiction with Romans 14:19
Advocates for pursuing what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding, in direct contrast to the violent overthrow described in Revelation 17:16.
Romans 14:19: Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
Contradiction with John 10:10
Describes Jesus as coming so that people may have life abundantly, which contradicts with the destruction and desolation in Revelation 17:16.
John 10:10: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly.
Contradiction with Isaiah 54:17
Promises that no weapon formed against the servants of the Lord shall prosper, which seems to contradict the idea of internal betrayal and destruction in Revelation 17:16.
Isaiah 54:17: No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue [that] shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This [is] the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness [is] of me, saith the LORD.
Paradox #1
Revelation 17:16 describes a situation where groups that initially supported a particular entity turn against it. A possible contradiction could be the question of divine control and free will. If God is in control of all events, why would He allow followers to turn against one another? Additionally, the idea of judgment and destruction may seem inconsistent with the message of love and redemption seen elsewhere in the Bible.
Paradox #2
Revelation 17:16 might seem to have a contradiction or conflict when considering the idea that the beast and the ten horns, which symbolize forces opposed to God, are used to fulfill God's purposes by destroying the harlot, which symbolizes a corrupt system opposed to God. This can appear inconsistent with the notion of good and evil being strictly separate, as it shows God using forces of evil to achieve divine judgment. However, in many interpretations, it's understood that God's sovereignty can work through any means, even those that seem contradictory from a human perspective.
Paradox #3
Revelation 17:16 involves symbolic imagery and interpretation, which can lead to differing views among scholars and religious groups regarding its meaning and implications. This can result in inconsistencies or conflicts in understanding the text, especially when considering historical and allegorical interpretations. Different interpretations about the identity of the symbolic figures mentioned and their roles have led to varying theological and historical perspectives.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in Revelation 17:16 could be seen in the idea of one group or entity turning against another, often reflecting themes of betrayal and violence. This can be viewed as conflicting with broader biblical messages of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, which advocate for peace and unity among people.