Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
Jesus teaches to not resist evil and to turn the other cheek, contrasting with the idea of breaking with a rod of iron.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Paul instructs to leave vengeance to God, which differs from actively executing judgment with a rod of iron.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turning away wrath contrasts with breaking rebellious nations with a rod of iron.
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Contradiction with John 18:36
Jesus says His kingdom is not of this world, implying a contrast to ruling with a rod of iron over earthly nations.
John 18:36: Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
Contradiction with James 1:20
The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God, which conflicts with the imagery of ruling and breaking nations.
James 1:20: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Paradox #1
Revelation 2:27 mentions the imagery of ruling with a rod of iron. Some people might see this as contradictory when compared to the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels, which emphasize love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek. While Revelation speaks of strong, authoritative rule, the Gospels often highlight mercy and meekness. This difference can seem inconsistent to some readers who try to reconcile these different representations.
Paradox #2
The concept of ruling with a "rod of iron" mentioned in Revelation 2:27 might be seen as contradictory to the scientific principle of cooperation and collaborative governance found in many successful earthly ecosystems and human social structures. Nature often thrives on balance and cooperation, whereas the idea of absolute rule may conflict with these observations.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in Revelation 2:27 could be that it talks about using power to rule or control others harshly, which may seem inconsistent with the teachings of love, forgiveness, and compassion found elsewhere in the Bible. This can create tension between justice and mercy.