Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 3:16
This verse suggests that turning to the Lord removes the veil and brings clarity, contrasting with Romans 11:8, which speaks of spiritual blindness.
2 Corinthians 3:16: Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.
Contradiction with John 9:39
Jesus here speaks of bringing sight to the blind, whereas Romans 11:8 indicates God has given a spirit of slumber.
John 9:39: And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Contradiction with Matthew 13:16
This verse states that blessed are the eyes that see, while Romans 11:8 describes people whose eyes do not see.
Matthew 13:16: But blessed [are] your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 4:4
It mentions that the god of this world blinds the minds of unbelievers, which can be seen as contradictory since Romans 11:8 suggests God has caused the blindness.
2 Corinthians 4:4: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Contradiction with Ephesians 5:14
It calls for awakening from sleep to receive Christ's light, opposing the spirit of slumber mentioned in Romans 11:8.
Ephesians 5:14: Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. [he: or, it]
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:6
This verse encourages alertness and sobriety, contrasting with the notion of a spirit of slumber in Romans 11:8.
1 Thessalonians 5:6: Therefore let us not sleep, as [do] others; but let us watch and be sober.
Contradiction with John 12:46
Jesus claims to bring light so believers won't remain in darkness, which contrasts with the sleep and blindness in Romans 11:8.
John 12:46: I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
Contradiction with Acts 26:18
Paul speaks of opening the eyes to turn people from darkness to light, opposing the closing of eyes suggested in Romans 11:8.
Acts 26:18: To open their eyes, [and] to turn [them] from darkness to light, and [from] the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
Contradiction with Isaiah 29:18
This prophecy speaks of the deaf hearing and the blind seeing, which contrasts with Romans 11:8's mention of closed eyes and ears.
Isaiah 29:18: And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness.
Paradox #1
Romans 11:8 might raise questions when compared to the idea that God desires all people to understand and accept the truth. If God lets some people remain blind or unaware, it could seem at odds with the concept of free will or the belief that God wants everyone to have the chance to find spiritual truth. This can be seen as a conflict between God's sovereignty and human free will.
Paradox #2
"Romans 11:8" might seem contradictory to the idea of free will because it suggests that God made certain people unable to see or hear the truth. This could conflict with the belief that everyone has the opportunity to choose their spiritual path.