Contradiction with 1 Timothy 2:12
This verse states that women should not teach or have authority over men, which contradicts Romans 16:1 where Phoebe is commended as a servant and likely a leader in the church.
1 Timothy 2:12: But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:34
This verse instructs women to remain silent in churches, opposing the commendation of Phoebe's role in Romans 16:1.
1 Corinthians 14:34: Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but [they are commanded] to be under obedience, as also saith the law.
Contradiction with Titus 2:5
This verse suggests women should be discreet and keepers at home, challenging the active role Phoebe is described to have in the church in Romans 16:1.
Titus 2:5: [To be] discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
Paradox #1
Some people argue that Romans 16:1 might contradict certain traditional views on the roles of women in the early Christian church. This verse refers to a woman named Phoebe as a "deacon" or "servant," which suggests she held an important role in the church, potentially challenging interpretations that limit leadership roles to men. This raises questions about the consistency of gender roles as presented in other parts of the Bible.