Contradiction with Proverbs 14:15
While Romans 16:19 advocates for wise discernment and avoidance of evil, Proverbs 14:15 suggests that only simple people believe every word, implying caution even with simplicity.
Proverbs 14:15: The simple believeth every word: but the prudent [man] looketh well to his going.
Contradiction with Matthew 10:16
Romans 16:19 praises being wise about good and simple to evil, but Matthew 10:16 advises being both wise as serpents and harmless as doves, indicating a need for cunning alongside innocence.
Matthew 10:16: Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. [harmless: or, simple]
Paradox #1
Romans 16:19 encourages believers to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. A possible contradiction could be the balance between being knowledgeable about good without being exposed to evil. It might seem challenging to fully understand goodness without recognizing or being aware of evil influences, potentially creating a conflict in maintaining innocence while gaining wisdom.