Contradiction with John 5:22
Romans 2:16 claims God judges through Christ, whereas John 5:22 states the Father judges no man but has committed all judgment to the Son.
John 5:22: For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7
Romans 2:16 mentions God judging secrets, yet 1 Samuel 16:7 shows the Lord looks on the heart and not outward appearances, suggesting a different criteria.
1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
Contradiction with James 2:13
Romans 2:16 implies judgment according to the gospel, while James 2:13 emphasizes mercy over judgment.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 12:14
Romans 2:16 focuses on judgment by Christ, but Ecclesiastes 12:14 emphasizes God bringing every work into judgment, suggesting a broader divine role.
Ecclesiastes 12:14: For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether [it be] good, or whether [it be] evil.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:1-2
Romans 2:16 speaks of God judging through Christ; Matthew 7:1-2 warns against judging others, indicating humans are not to judge, which some see as conflicting with human involvement in gospel judgment.
Matthew 7:1-2: Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Contradiction with Acts 17:31
Romans 2:16 highlights judgment by the gospel, yet Acts 17:31 states judgment is by a man appointed by God, emphasizing human agency.
Acts 17:31: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by [that] man whom he hath ordained; [whereof] he hath given assurance unto all [men], in that he hath raised him from the dead. [hath given...: or, offered faith]
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between this verse and the idea of salvation by faith alone, as emphasized in other parts of the New Testament. The verse talks about God judging people's secrets, which could suggest that actions or hidden thoughts are taken into account, potentially conflicting with the belief that faith is the sole basis for salvation. However, interpretations vary, and many theologians integrate these ideas harmoniously.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Romans 2:16 arises from the idea that God will judge people's secrets through Jesus Christ. This may seem inconsistent with other biblical teachings about forgiveness, love, and mercy, as it suggests an emphasis on judgment and punishment rather than grace and redemption. Some might see a conflict between being judged for secret actions and being forgiven through faith.