Does the Bible Contradict Itself?

[spockrates]

Thanks for the thoughtful answer. I ask because I'm going through a time of uncertainty in my Christian walk and appreciate the help.




I do not think he was saying that all non-Christians are egotistical and I'm pretty sure he understands that Christians are not immune to selfishness, if that were true I would be in trouble.

Yes and no, God desires that we follow in His will without question and we would, if our faith was strong enough. Being fallen people God knows we are not capable of this perfect faith and thus does reason with us so we can understand His will. He does not compromise with us, His will is perfect and to compromise would mean to give us standards that are less than who God is. Read verses 1-20, do you ask for God's revelation of His word before you read and are you looking for answers you want or the ones that reveal God's truth.

Yes, I do seek the truth, and I suppose that Socrates was right in saying that in seeking the truth, we have nothing to lose but our ignorance!



I'd say that the context of the passage is that seeking forgiveness from God is not enough. Reason tells us that we must sincerely repent to become (or perhaps remain) forgiven.

18 “Come now, let us reason together,”
    says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
    they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
    they shall be like wool.
19 If you are willing and obedient,
    you will eat the best from the land;
20 but if you resist and rebel,
    you will be devoured by the sword.”
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

(Isaiah 1)

This idea appears to agree with the teaching of Paul,


God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel.

(Acts 5:31)

and Jesus,


"...and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."

(Like 24:47)