Contradiction with Acts 5:29
This verse states, "We ought to obey God rather than men," which contradicts Romans 13:2 by emphasizing obedience to God over human authorities.
Acts 5:29: Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Contradiction with Exodus 1:17
The Hebrew midwives feared God and did not obey the king of Egypt's orders, directly opposing the command to submit to authority in Romans 13:2.
Exodus 1:17: But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
Contradiction with Daniel 3:18
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to serve the king's gods or worship the golden image, contrasting the idea of submission to authority.
Daniel 3:18: But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
Contradiction with Daniel 6:10
Daniel continues to pray to God despite a kingly decree forbidding it, which opposes the concept of submission to governing authorities outlined in Romans 13:2.
Daniel 6:10: Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.
Contradiction with Revelation 13:7
This verse describes a beast waging war against the saints and prevailing, suggesting that divine authority can override earthly powers, in contrast with Romans 13:2.
Revelation 13:7: And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
Paradox #1
Romans 13:2 might seem to contradict instances in the Bible where people are praised for resisting or disobeying authorities, such as when Daniel continues to pray despite a royal decree or when the apostles in the Book of Acts continue to preach about Jesus even when ordered not to by the authorities. These stories suggest that there are times when resisting authority is necessary to stay true to one's faith, which can appear inconsistent with the idea of always submitting to authorities.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction between Romans 13:2, which emphasizes obeying authorities, and other parts of the Bible where disobeying unjust authority is shown as justified, like when the apostles say they must obey God rather than human leaders. This could seem inconsistent because it raises questions about when it's right to follow human authority versus doing what one believes is right under God's laws.
Paradox #3
Some people see a contradiction or conflict with Romans 13:2 because it suggests that resisting authority is opposing God's order. However, this can conflict with historical events where resisting unjust or oppressive governments was seen as necessary or morally right, such as during the fight against tyrannical regimes. This creates a tension between obeying authority and standing up against injustice.
Paradox #4
Romans 13:2 suggests that opposing authority is opposing God’s ordinance, which may conflict with scientific perspectives that emphasize questioning and challenging established ideas—central to scientific progress and understanding. Science often advances through questioning authority and challenging existing beliefs, which could be seen as inconsistent with a strict interpretation of this verse.
Paradox #5
Romans 13:2 could be seen as having a contradiction or conflict because it advocates for obeying authorities, which might include unjust or oppressive governments. This can be seen as inconsistent with the moral duty to oppose evil and fight for justice.