Contradiction with John 3:16
Emphasizes belief in Jesus for eternal life, not involving baptism for forgiveness.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:8-9
Highlights salvation by grace through faith, not by works such as baptism.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:17
Paul states Christ sent him not to baptize, but to preach the gospel.
1 Corinthians 1:17: For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. [words: or, speech]
Contradiction with Romans 10:9
Promotes confession and belief in Jesus for salvation, without mentioning baptism.
Romans 10:9: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Contradiction with Luke 23:42-43
Jesus promises paradise to the repentant thief on the cross who was not baptized.
Luke 23:42-43: And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.
Contradiction with Mark 16:16
Suggests that disbelief, not failure to be baptized, results in condemnation.
Mark 16:16: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
Stresses doing the will of God for entering the kingdom of heaven, without specifying baptism as a requirement.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in this verse regarding the role of baptism in salvation. Different parts of the Bible emphasize faith alone for salvation, while this verse seems to give baptism a significant role. This can lead to differing interpretations on whether baptism is necessary for salvation or simply a public declaration of faith.
Paradox #2
Acts 22:16 mentions baptism for the forgiveness of sins. Some may see a contradiction with the belief that only faith in Jesus grants forgiveness, as emphasized in other Bible passages. This might seem inconsistent if one thinks baptism is necessary for salvation, while other verses stress faith alone.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict could be the idea that an external ritual, like baptism, is necessary to wash away sins, which might conflict with the belief that faith alone is what purifies and saves a person. This could create tension between actions and belief as the means of attaining forgiveness.