Romans 13:12 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Paul, it's like when nighttime is almost over and it's nearly morning; we should stop doing bad things and start doing good things, like wearing a suit of goodness. It's about choosing to be kind and helpful, like a superhero putting on their special suit to help others.

Contradiction with Ephesians 5:11

This verse encourages exposing and reproving the works of darkness, while Romans 13:12 suggests casting off the works of darkness, focusing more on transformation rather than confrontation.

Ephesians 5:11: And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].

Contradiction with John 3:19

This verse talks about people loving darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil, which contrasts with the Romans 13:12 call to cast off works of darkness, highlighting a different aspect of human nature.

John 3:19: And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:5

This verse emphasizes that believers are children of light and of the day, which can seem less about the transformative process highlighted in Romans 13:12 and more about identity.

1 Thessalonians 5:5: Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:14

Calls believers the light of the world, suggesting an innate quality rather than the active choice implied in Romans 13:12 to "put on the armour of light."

Matthew 5:14: Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 6:14

Speaks against being unequally yoked with unbelievers with the focus on separation and opposition, contrasting the transformative and inclusive call of Romans 13:12 to “put on the armour of light.”

2 Corinthians 6:14: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

Paradox #1