Contradiction with 1 John 2:19
1 John 2:19 suggests that those who cause division never belonged to the true faith, whereas Acts 20:29 implies that dangerous individuals will arise from within the community.
1 John 2:19: They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would [no doubt] have continued with us: but [they went out], that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.
Contradiction with Matthew 16:18
Matthew 16:18 promises that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church, which seems to contradict the warning in Acts 20:29 about grievous wolves entering the church.
Matthew 16:18: And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [Peter: this name signifies a rock]
Contradiction with John 10:27-28
Jesus promises in John 10:27-28 that His sheep will never be plucked from His hand, implying their security against adversaries, contrary to the threat from 'wolves' in Acts 20:29.
John 10:27-28: My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
Contradiction with Philippians 1:6
Philippians 1:6 speaks of God completing the good work in believers, contrasting with Acts 20:29, where the threat of destruction from within is suggested.
Philippians 1:6: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ: [perform: or, finish]
Paradox #1
Acts 20:29 mentions a warning about dangerous people coming from outside to harm a group. This isn’t necessarily contradictory with other teachings, but someone might see it as conflicting with messages about love and forgiveness elsewhere in the Bible. The idea of being wary and cautious could seem at odds with always being open-hearted and forgiving, as taught in some other passages. However, many interpret this as a call to be wise while still maintaining love and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
Acts 20:29 might present a contradiction or conflict when considered in the context of teachings about love and unity within the Christian community. The verse warns about the emergence of false leaders who will harm the community, which could seem inconsistent with the message of trusting and loving others. This creates a tension between being cautious and suspicious of others while also maintaining compassion and fellowship.