Contradiction with Matthew 23:12
Romans 8:17 mentions being heirs with Christ if we suffer, while Matthew 23:12 emphasizes being humbled and exalted as a separate condition.
Matthew 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Contradiction with Mark 10:31
Romans 8:17 speaks of heirship through suffering, whereas Mark 10:31 suggests a reversal of earthly status, not directly tied to suffering.
Mark 10:31: But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last first.
Contradiction with John 1:12
Romans 8:17 implies suffering is a condition for being heirs, but John 1:12 states that belief alone grants the right to be children of God.
John 1:12: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: [power: or, the right, or, privilege]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:13-15
Romans 8:17 requires suffering for heirship, but 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 highlights salvation despite works being tested and possibly burned away.
1 Corinthians 3:13-15: Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. [it shall be: Gr. it is]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 1:4-5
Romans 8:17 ties heirship to suffering, while 1 Peter 1:4-5 describes an inheritance kept by faith, with no mention of suffering.
1 Peter 1:4-5: To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, [for you: or, for us]
Paradox #1
Romans 8:17 talks about believers being both heirs with Christ and sharing in his sufferings. A potential theological tension could be about the idea of suffering being a part of the believer's journey. Some might question why suffering is necessary if believers are heirs to a glorious future with Christ. This could be seen as inconsistent with the idea of a benevolent God wanting prosperity and happiness for His followers.
Paradox #2
Romans 8:17 discusses the believers being heirs with Christ, sharing in his sufferings and glory. A potential doctrinal conflict could arise concerning the nature of suffering and reward in Christianity. Some interpretations might struggle with the idea that believers are promised suffering alongside the promise of glory. This tension can be confusing for those who expect only blessings and not challenges in their spiritual journey.
Paradox #3
One potential area of contradiction or conflict with Romans 8:17 could be found in different interpretations of what it means to be "heirs with Christ." Some Christian traditions emphasize the idea that being heirs implies a future reward or inheritance in heaven, while others might focus on the responsibilities and hardships that come with being a follower of Christ in this life. These differing interpretations can lead to conflicting views on the nature of salvation and the Christian life.