Contradiction with Matthew 16:18
This verse states that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church, which contradicts the destruction and downfall of Babylon depicted in Revelation 18:21.
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 Isaiah 9:7
Promises the increase of God's government and peace with no end, contradicting the sudden and violent destruction described in Revelation 18:21.
Isaiah 9:7: Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:11
Speaks of God’s plans for prosperity and hope, which contradicts the complete ruin described in Revelation 18:21.
Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected...: Heb. end and expectation]
Contradiction with Psalm 46:5
Assures that God is in the midst of the city and it shall not be moved, contrasting the absolute fall described in Revelation 18:21.
Psalm 46:5: God [is] in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, [and that] right early. [and...: Heb. when the morning appeareth]
Contradiction with Luke 1:33
States that Christ's kingdom will have no end, contradicting the finality of Babylon's fall in Revelation 18:21.
Luke 1:33: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Paradox #1
Revelation 18:21 describes the destruction of Babylon, symbolizing the final judgment and downfall of evil. A possible theological conflict could arise when comparing this with the message of forgiveness and redemption found in other parts of the Bible. Some might struggle to reconcile the idea of total destruction with the notion of a merciful and forgiving God. However, this is often understood within the context of God’s ultimate justice against persistent unrepentant evil.
Paradox #2
Revelation 18:21 talks about the destruction of a city as a form of divine judgment. A contradiction or conflict might be seen in the idea of a loving and forgiving God allowing or causing such complete destruction, which could seem harsh or inconsistent with messages of mercy and redemption found elsewhere in the Bible.