Contradiction with Deuteronomy 18:20
This verse supports the idea of removing false prophets, similar to Zechariah 13:2, rather than contradicting it.
Deuteronomy 18:20: But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:15
This verse warns against false prophets, aligning with the removal of such in Zechariah 13:2, thus not a contradiction.
Matthew 7:15: Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Contradiction with 1 John 4:1
Encourages testing spirits to identify false prophets, reinforcing the concept in Zechariah 13:2 instead of contradicting it.
1 John 4:1: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction between Zechariah 13:2, which talks about ending false prophecies and idols, and other parts of the Bible where prophecy, visions, and dreams play central roles in communicating God's messages. The inconsistency arises when considering that prophecy is often highlighted as a divine tool, yet here it's associated with falsehoods to be removed. However, this can be understood as a distinction between true divine prophecy and misleading, false ones.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Zechariah 13:2 could be related to the mention of removing idols and false prophets, as there are debates among scholars about the historical context of idol worship in post-exilic Israel. Some argue that idol worship was largely absent during that time, which could make the verse seem inconsistent or anachronistic.
Paradox #3
Zechariah 13:2 talks about removing idols and false spirits from the land. A contradiction or inconsistency could be the idea of spirits, as science requires empirical evidence and measurable phenomena. Spirits are not something that can be observed or measured scientifically, creating a conflict between belief and scientific validation.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in Zechariah 13:2 could be seen in the tension between the importance of freedom of belief and the verse's intention to eliminate false prophets and idols. On one hand, people value their right to choose and follow their beliefs, while on the other hand, this verse suggests a forceful removal of certain beliefs, which might seem harsh or intolerant.