Contradiction with Psalm 137:9
This verse speaks of desiring harm upon one's enemies, contrasting with Romans 12:14's call to bless those who persecute you.
Psalm 137:9: Happy [shall he be], that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones. [the stones: Heb. the rock]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 23:6
This verse advises against seeking peace or prosperity for certain nations, which contradicts the directive in Romans 12:14 to bless one's persecutors.
Deuteronomy 23:6: Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever. [prosperity: Heb. good]
Contradiction with 2 John 1:10
This verse instructs not to welcome or offer hospitality to anyone who spreads false teachings, which could be seen as contradicting the inclusive blessing stance of Romans 12:14.
2 John 1:10: If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed:
Contradiction with Exodus 21:24
The principle of "eye for eye" supports reciprocating harm, contrasting with the non-retaliatory message of Romans 12:14.
Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Psalm 58:6
This verse encourages praying for harm upon adversaries, contradicting Romans 12:14’s instruction to bless those who do wrong to you.
Psalm 58:6: Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions, O LORD.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
Implies rejoicing in the downfall of enemies is acceptable, which would contrast with the message of blessing persecutors in Romans 12:14.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Paradox #1
Some people see a conflict between the guidance in Romans 12:14 and the natural human instinct to seek justice or retribution against those who cause harm. This teaching can be seen as inconsistent with other biblical passages advocating for justice and punishment against wrongdoers. The challenge is balancing the encouragement to forgive and bless those who hurt us with the human desire for justice and accountability.
Paradox #2
Romans 12:14 encourages individuals to bless those who persecute them, which might seem in conflict with human instincts for justice and self-preservation. Some might find it hard to reconcile forgiving or blessing someone who causes harm, feeling it goes against the natural desire to protect oneself or seek fairness. This can create a moral conflict between the call to show grace and the instinct to respond to wrongdoing with defensive actions.