Contradiction with Matthew 5:17
This verse emphasizes the fulfillment of the law through Jesus, while Acts 12:4 seems to indicate a continued observance of Jewish customs such as Easter, which is not found elsewhere in Jewish tradition and might instead suggest a Christian observance.
Matthew 5:17: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
Contradiction with Colossians 2:16-17
This passage speaks against judging others on religious festivals or practices, contrasting with Acts 12:4 where the observation of Easter is implied as significant.
Colossians 2:16-17: Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath [days]: [in meat...: or, for eating and drinking] [respect: or, part]
Contradiction with Galatians 4:9-10
Paul criticizes adherence to special days and rituals, which contradicts the suggestion in Acts 12:4 that Easter, a specific observance day, is crucial.
Galatians 4:9-10: But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? [turn ye again: or, turn ye back] [elements: or, rudiments]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 5:7-8
Paul speaks of Christ as our Passover, encouraging sincerity and truth rather than the old practice, challenging the association of Easter as a Christian obligation implied in Acts 12:4.
1 Corinthians 5:7-8: Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: [is sacrificed; or, is slain]
Paradox #1
The doctrinal conflict in Acts 12:4 arises from the use of the word "Easter" in some translations, such as the King James Version (KJV). This is seen as inconsistent because the original Greek word is "Pascha," which typically means "Passover," a Jewish festival. The use of "Easter" can be misleading because Easter is a Christian holiday post-dating the events of Acts. This discrepancy can cause confusion over how early Christians observed these festivals.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Acts 12:4 involves the translation of the Greek word "πασχα" (Pascha) as "Easter" in some versions of the Bible. This term traditionally refers to "Passover." The inconsistency arises because translating "Pascha" as "Easter" conflicts with the timeline and historical understanding, as "Easter" is a later Christian tradition distinct from the Jewish "Passover."