Contradiction with Exodus 34:15
This verse warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land and joining in their sacrifices, contradicting the allowance of idols and false teachings mentioned in Revelation 2:14.
Exodus 34:15: Lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, and they go a whoring after their gods, and do sacrifice unto their gods, and [one] call thee, and thou eat of his sacrifice;
Contradiction with Acts 15:29
This verse instructs to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, which contradicts Revelation 2:14 where such practices are mentioned as being followed.
Acts 15:29: That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
Paradox #1
Revelation 2:14 mentions teachings and behaviors that go against God's commands. A possible contradiction some might see is with God's overall message of forgiveness and transformation. While the verse criticizes certain practices, some may question how this fits with the broader biblical theme of grace and redemption for all who turn away from wrongdoing. It might seem inconsistent with the idea that anyone can change and be accepted by God.
Paradox #2
Revelation 2:14 refers to the teachings of Balaam and the issues of idolatry and immorality. The potential doctrinal inconsistency might be with passages elsewhere in the Bible that emphasize grace and forgiveness. While some texts focus on strict adherence to commands and condemnations of idolatry, other parts stress forgiveness and redemption for sins. This could seem contradictory to some, as they see a tension between stringent rules and the themes of grace.
Paradox #3
The verse refers to the teachings of Balaam and an instance from the Old Testament. A historical inconsistency could arise from the fact that the specific practices mentioned (eating food sacrificed to idols and committing sexual immorality) are tied to Balaam in a way that doesn't have direct evidence in the Old Testament narrative itself. Thus, there's a perceived inconsistency in linking Balaam directly to these actions.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in Revelation 2:14 might revolve around the idea of people being misled into doing wrong things. It highlights tension between staying true to one's beliefs and being swayed by others into actions or beliefs that are not consistent with one's faith. This creates a contradiction between following external influences and maintaining personal integrity and adherence to religious teachings.