Contradiction with 1 Kings 19:12
Revelation 8:5 describes loud noises from the altar in heaven, while 1 Kings 19:12 depicts God's presence as a still, small voice.
1 Kings 19:12: And after the earthquake a fire; [but] the LORD [was] not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
Contradiction with James 1:17
Revelation 8:5 describes dynamic events caused by God, yet James 1:17 refers to God as unchanging and consistent.
James 1:17: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Contradiction with Psalms 46:10
Revelation 8:5 showcases commotion and divine activity, whereas Psalm 46:10 encourages stillness to know God.
Psalms 46:10: Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:33
Revelation 8:5 describes chaos from heavenly activities, while 1 Corinthians 14:33 states God is not the author of confusion.
1 Corinthians 14:33: For God is not [the author] of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. [confusion: Gr. tumult, or, unquietness]
Contradiction with Matthew 12:19
Revelation 8:5 features loud and pronounced heavenly sounds, but Matthew 12:19 describes a more quiet demeanor.
Matthew 12:19: He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets.
Paradox #1
Revelation 8:5 describes events involving divine intervention and instruments of judgment. Some might see a contradiction if they compare this depiction of a dramatic, wrathful response from heaven with other parts of the Bible that emphasize God's love, mercy, and forgiveness. This could seem inconsistent with a solely benevolent portrayal of God. Others might argue that it reflects a different aspect of divine justice, showing God’s response to persistent wrongdoing. The tension lies in reconciling justice with mercy.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Revelation 8:5 could be the idea of divine punishment versus the concept of a loving and forgiving God. While the verse describes dramatic acts of judgment and wrath, this can seem inconsistent with the teaching of unconditional love and mercy that is also present in the Bible. This might create a conflict between the ideas of justice through punishment and redemption through forgiveness.