Contradiction with Luke 18:14
This verse suggests that those who humble themselves will be exalted, indicating a distinction among people based on their actions, while Romans 3:9 implies that all are equally under sin.
Luke 18:14: I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Contradiction with 1 John 3:9
States that those born of God do not commit sin, which contradicts Romans 3:9's assertion that all are under sin.
1 John 3:9: Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. [is born: or, has been born]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:20
Implies that one's righteousness can exceed that of the Pharisees to enter the kingdom of heaven, contrasting with the notion in Romans 3:9 that everyone is under sin.
Matthew 5:20: For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed [the righteousness] of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:5
Suggests that righteousness leads to a level path and wickedness to a fall, indicating a separation based on actions, conflicting with Romans 3:9's universal sinfulness.
Proverbs 11:5: The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. [direct: Heb. rectify]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:21
Indicates that the wicked can turn away from sins and not be guilty, contrary to Romans 3:9 where all are described as under sin.
Ezekiel 18:21: But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
Contradiction with James 1:27
Describes pure religion as being unspotted from the world, suggesting some people are distinct from sinners mentioned in Romans 3:9.
James 1:27: Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:17
Suggests that good trees bring forth good fruit while bad trees bring forth evil fruit, implying different groups based on their deeds, contrasting with Romans 3:9.
Matthew 7:17: Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
Paradox #1
The verse suggests that no one is better than anyone else because everyone is under sin. The moral conflict could be that it challenges the idea of moral superiority or righteousness. Some people may struggle with the idea that no matter their actions or beliefs, they are on the same moral level as others who might behave poorly. This can be difficult to reconcile for those who believe in a reward-based moral system.