Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
This verse states that the Lord looks at the heart, not the outward appearance, suggesting God does not necessarily judge actions as Revelation 2:23 implies He searches and judges deeds.
1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:21-23
It emphasizes that if a wicked person turns from all their sins, they will live, which contrasts with Revelation 2:23's focus on repaying each according to their works rather than on repentance.
Ezekiel 18:21-23: But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
Contradiction with John 3:16-17
These verses emphasize salvation through belief in Jesus rather than judgment by works, which seems to contradict the direct recompense associated with deeds mentioned in Revelation 2:23.
John 3:16-17: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Romans 8:1
This verse declares there is no condemnation for those in Christ, contradicting the idea of being judged according to works as suggested in Revelation 2:23.
Romans 8:1: [There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses emphasize salvation by grace through faith, not works, which contradicts the principle of being judged and repaid according to one's deeds in Revelation 2:23.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Contradiction with James 2:24
This passage suggests justification not by faith alone but also by works, which aligns more with Revelation 2:23, rather than contradicting, but it contrasts with other verses about faith over works.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Paradox #1
Revelation 2:23 could be viewed as contradicting the idea of God as always forgiving or merciful. The verse talks about rendering judgment based on one's deeds, which some might see as conflicting with the concept of grace and forgiveness taught elsewhere in the Bible, where emphasis is often placed on redemption and mercy.
Paradox #2
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict that some might point to regarding this verse could involve the concept of divine judgment and love. Many people struggle with understanding how God's love reconciles with the idea of judgment and punishment, which is a theme in some parts of the Bible. Some see a conflict between the portrayal of God as merciful and forgiving versus as a judge who delivers severe consequences. However, these views can often be harmonized through deeper theological study.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in that verse could relate to the idea that a divine entity can "search the hearts and minds" of individuals, which suggests knowing thoughts and intentions. Science typically relies on observable and measurable phenomena, so the concept of an entity having the ability to directly know inner thoughts without any physical interaction is not supported by scientific evidence.
Paradox #4
One possible contradiction in Revelation 2:23 could be the idea of divine punishment on not just individuals but their descendants, which might conflict with the concept of individual responsibility and justice. This can be seen as conflicting with the belief that people should be held accountable only for their own actions, rather than being punished for the deeds of others.