Contradiction with Matthew 12:30
This verse stresses the idea that not being with Jesus is akin to being against Him, which contradicts with the simplicity of denying Christ's presence as stated in 1 John 4:3.
Matthew 12:30: He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:4
This verse discusses the acceptance of a different spirit or gospel, which contradicts the firm denial of any spirit not confessing Jesus Christ in 1 John 4:3.
2 Corinthians 11:4: For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]. [with him: or, with me]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:3
States that no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Ghost, which seems to contradict the notion of recognizing spirits in 1 John 4:3.
1 Corinthians 12:3: Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and [that] no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. [accursed: or, anathema]
Contradiction with Mark 9:40
States, "For he that is not against us is on our part," suggesting a more inclusionary stance that might conflict with the exclusive stance in 1 John 4:3.
Mark 9:40: For he that is not against us is on our part.
Contradiction with Philippians 1:18
Paul speaks about rejoicing because Christ is preached in all manners, which could be seen as conflicting with the strict boundary in 1 John 4:3 regarding who confesses Christ properly.
Philippians 1:18: What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
Paradox #1
The verse discusses the denial of a central Christian belief about Jesus. Some people might see a contradiction if other parts of the Bible seem to suggest different ways to recognize truth or falsehood, leading to confusion over what criteria should be used. Additionally, if one believes the Bible should unify rather than divide, this verse may appear to establish a divisive test of belief. However, such interpretations depend on individual perspectives and interpretations.
Paradox #2
The verse suggests that anyone who does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God, which can be seen as inconsistent if considering religious perspectives that recognize Jesus differently or not at all while still believing in a higher power. This can create a doctrinal conflict for interfaith dialogue or interpretations of divine truth.
Paradox #3
The verse could be seen as contradictory or inconsistent with the views of some early Christian groups who had different understandings of Jesus' nature and relationship with the divine. These groups might have had beliefs that did not align with the traditional assertion present in this verse, leading to conflicts or debates in early Christianity about the nature of Jesus and how to define a true believer.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction in 1 John 4:3 could be seen as exclusivity in determining truth and belonging to God, as it suggests that only those who acknowledge Jesus in a specific way are from God. This could conflict with the idea of universal acceptance and love, as it seems to exclude people with different beliefs or understandings.