Contradiction with James 2:24
James emphasizes that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone, which contrasts with Romans 3:26’s focus on justification through faith.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with Galatians 2:16
This verse states that a person is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, which seems to support Romans 3:26, yet some interpretations suggest it still acknowledges works, creating potential tension.
Galatians 2:16: Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
Jesus mentions that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father, suggesting the necessity of actions, which contrasts with purely faith-based justification in Romans 3:26.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with James 2:17
Faith without works is dead, challenging Romans 3:26 by suggesting that faith alone is insufficient for justification.
James 2:17: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. [alone: Gr. by itself]
Paradox #1
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict related to Romans 3:26 is the debate over how God's justice and mercy can coexist. Some people find it difficult to understand how God can be both perfectly just, punishing sin, while also being merciful and forgiving towards sinners. This balance between justice and mercy has led to theological discussions and differing interpretations throughout history.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Romans 3:26 could lie in balancing God's justice with His mercy. It suggests that God is both just and the one who justifies those with faith. The conflict could arise from questioning how God can be truly just if He forgives sinners rather than punishing all wrongdoing consistently.