Contradictions and Paradoxes in Zephaniah 3:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Zephaniah 3:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Zephaniah 3:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Zephaniah, God tells the people in the city of Jerusalem not to be afraid and encourages them to be strong and not to give up. It's like God is saying, "Don't worry, I've got your back, so keep going!"

Zephaniah 3:16: In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not: [and to] Zion, Let not thine hands be slack. [slack: or, faint]

Contradiction with Exodus 14:14

Zephaniah 3:16 encourages action to not be afraid, while Exodus 14:14 emphasizes being still and not fighting because the Lord will fight for you.

Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 20:8

Zephaniah 3:16 encourages those who are fearful to not let their hands be weak, contradicting Deuteronomy 20:8, which suggests the fearful should return home.

Deuteronomy 20:8: And the officers shall speak further unto the people, and they shall say, What man [is there that is] fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren's heart faint as well as his heart. [faint: Heb. melt]

Contradiction with Isaiah 41:10

Zephaniah 3:16 suggests that there is still reason to fear, contradicting Isaiah 41:10 which commands not to fear because God is with you.

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Contradiction with Matthew 10:28

Zephaniah 3:16 implies acting bravely against fear, whereas Matthew 10:28 instructs to fear God who can destroy both body and soul, not just external threats.

Matthew 10:28: And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Contradiction with John 14:27

Zephaniah 3:16 talks about not fearing on the Day of the Lord, whereas John 14:27 speaks of peace bestowed and advises not to let the heart be troubled at any time.

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
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