Contradiction with John 17:15
This verse records Jesus' prayer for God to protect his disciples from the evil that is in the world, suggesting they are not ultimately under the control of the wicked one, unlike the implication in 1 John 5:19.
John 17:15: I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
Contradiction with James 4:7
This verse instructs believers to resist the devil and he will flee from them, implying the power and choice believers have over the wicked one, contrasting with 1 John 5:19's statement about the world lying under the influence of the wicked one.
James 4:7: Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Contradiction with John 12:31
This verse states that the prince of this world will be cast out, suggesting a limitation to the present influence of the wicked one that appears at odds with the assertion in 1 John 5:19.
John 12:31: Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:2-3
While acknowledging influence by the "prince of the power of the air," it also highlights that believers were once in this state, implying they no longer are, creating a contrast with the idea that the whole world lies in wickedness in 1 John 5:19.
Ephesians 2:2-3: Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
Contradiction with Colossians 1:13
This verse describes believers being delivered from the power of darkness, opposing the notion in 1 John 5:19 by suggesting there is freedom from the power of the wicked one.
Colossians 1:13: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of his dear Son: [his...: Gr. the Son of his love]
Paradox #1
The verse in question suggests that the whole world is under the influence of evil. A potential contradiction might arise when considering the belief that God is all-powerful and sovereign over the world. Some people might find it conflicting to reconcile God's sovereignty with the idea that the world is predominantly influenced by evil forces. However, many theologians resolve this by explaining that while evil is present, God's ultimate authority and plan for good prevail.
Paradox #2
1 John 5:19 suggests a division between followers of God and the influence of the world, which is under control of evil. A moral conflict arises because it implies a stark separation between "good" and "evil" people, which might not align with the idea of universal kindness and love for all. This can be seen as inconsistent with teachings that encourage empathy and understanding across different backgrounds and beliefs.