Contradiction with Proverbs 26:12
This verse suggests there's more hope for a fool than for someone wise in their own eyes, contrasting with Romans 1:22 which implies those claiming wisdom become fools.
Proverbs 26:12: Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? [there is] more hope of a fool than of him.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:27
This verse states that God chooses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, implying that worldly wisdom is not always foolishness contrary to Romans 1:22.
1 Corinthians 1:27: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
Contradiction with Proverbs 14:8
This verse highlights the wisdom of the prudent, contrasting with the critique of human wisdom found in Romans 1:22.
Proverbs 14:8: The wisdom of the prudent [is] to understand his way: but the folly of fools [is] deceit.
Contradiction with James 3:13
This verse promotes wisdom through good conduct and meekness, suggesting a positive view of wisdom unlike Romans 1:22.
James 3:13: Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:12
This verse states that wisdom gives life to those who have it, which can be seen as contradicting the negative portrayal of wisdom in Romans 1:22.
Ecclesiastes 7:12: For wisdom [is] a defence, [and] money [is] a defence: but the excellency of knowledge [is, that] wisdom giveth life to them that have it. [defence: Heb. shadow]
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in Romans 1:22 with other biblical passages that speak positively about human wisdom and understanding, as Romans 1:22 criticizes those who claim to be wise. While other parts of the Bible, like Proverbs, emphasize the value of seeking wisdom, Romans 1:22 focuses on the problem of people being prideful about their own understanding, leading them away from God. This can seem inconsistent, but it can be understood as different contexts: one warns against arrogance, while the other encourages true wisdom aligned with faith.