Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
While Romans 12:20 speaks about actions of kindness towards enemies, Matthew 5:44 emphasizes loving and praying for them, which may be seen as a deeper, less action-based contradiction focused on internal attitude.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Exodus 21:24
This verse promotes retribution ("eye for eye, tooth for tooth"), which contrasts with the message of kindness and mercy in Romans 12:20.
Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
Although this is the source material for Romans 12:20, one could interpret Proverbs as advocating for strategic kindness rather than genuine goodwill, leading to a possible contradiction in intent.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Psalm 58:10
Here, the imagery of rejoicing over vengeance contrasts with the idea of benevolent treatment of enemies found in Romans 12:20.
Psalm 58:10: The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked.
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 1:6
The verse speaks about God recompensing tribulation to those who trouble you, which contradicts the idea of rewarding enemies with kindness.
2 Thessalonians 1:6: Seeing [it is] a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;
Contradiction with Revelation 6:10
This verse depicts the souls of martyrs crying out for avenging their blood, opposing the message of Romans 12:20 to respond to enemies with kindness.
Revelation 6:10: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?
Paradox #1
Romans 12:20 suggests showing kindness to enemies, which might seem to conflict with some Old Testament passages that advocate for justice or punishment for enemies. This could be seen as a contradiction between justice and mercy or between different teachings on how to treat adversaries.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction between the advice given in Romans 12:20—about being kind to enemies—and other parts of the Bible that discuss justice or retribution. They might find it confusing when compared to verses that talk about punishment or defending oneself. However, many believe there's no real conflict because these teachings address different situations and aspects of behavior—one emphasizing personal conduct and the other governing justice or order.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency might come from the idea of doing good to your enemies to indirectly cause them discomfort or guilt, which could be seen as having an element of manipulation or insincerity. Some people might argue that true kindness should not have an ulterior motive or lead to someone's distress, even if it is meant to bring about eventual reconciliation or repentance.