Contradiction with 1 John 4:7
This verse emphasizes that love is from God, implying that those who love know God, whereas Romans 8:8 suggests that those who live in the flesh cannot please God.
1 John 4:7: Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. [is born: Gr. has been born]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:45
This verse suggests that God extends grace by providing sun and rain on the just and unjust alike, implying that acts of God are not exclusively linked to being in the spirit, contradicting Romans 8:8.
Matthew 5:45: That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Contradiction with Genesis 4:4-5
Here Cain and Abel both offer sacrifices to God, but God demonstrates pleasure in Abel's offering despite Cain acting "in the flesh," which appears to contradict Romans 8:8's notion that one cannot please God when acting carnally.
Genesis 4:4-5: And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: [flock: Heb. sheep, or, goats]
Contradiction with Acts 10:34-35
This verse indicates that God accepts all who act righteously, implying that even those 'in the flesh' can be accepted, which could conflict with Romans 8:8's assertive stance.
Acts 10:34-35: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
Paradox #1
Romans 8:8 suggests that those led by the flesh cannot please God. A potential contradiction might arise when considering human nature, which has both physical and spiritual aspects. The conflict could be in understanding how people can live in the world with physical needs yet strive to fully please a spiritual God. Balancing natural desires with spiritual devotion may seem inconsistent.