Contradiction with Exodus 20:5
Romans 8:15 affirms believers receive a spirit of adoption, not fear, contrasting with God visiting iniquity upon those who hate Him, implying fear of divine retribution.
Exodus 20:5: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God [am] a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth [generation] of them that hate me;
Contradiction with Proverbs 1:7
Romans 8:15 states believers are adopted without fear, while Proverbs emphasizes fear of the Lord as a foundation for knowledge, suggesting fear is crucial.
Proverbs 1:7: The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction. [the beginning: or, the principal part]
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 1:7
Romans 8:15 speaks against the spirit of fear, while this verse emphasizes that God has not given a spirit of fear, albeit aligning with empowerment rather than contrasting.
2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Contradiction with Hebrews 12:28-29
Romans 8:15 discusses believers not being in fear, contrasting the call here to serve God with reverence and fear because God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:28-29: Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: [let...: or, let us hold fast]
Contradiction with Revelation 14:7
Romans 8:15 offers a spirit of adoption free from fear, while this verse commands fear of God in the context of judgment, suggesting fear is necessary.
Revelation 14:7: Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.
Paradox #1
Romans 8:15 emphasizes freedom from fear and a close relationship with God, like a parent and child. Some might see a contradiction when comparing this message to other parts of the Bible that describe a more fear-based relationship with God. While some verses stress love and closeness, others underscore fear and obedience, which can seem inconsistent.