Contradiction with Matthew 28:19
This verse emphasizes the necessity of baptism as part of making disciples, implying a more ritualistic importance which may not align neatly with the confession of belief in Acts 8:37.
Matthew 28:19: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [teach...: or, make disciples, or, Christians of all nations]
Contradiction with John 3:5
This verse suggests that being "born of water and the Spirit" is essential for entering the kingdom of God, which contrasts with the singular requirement of believing with all one's heart in Acts 8:37.
John 3:5: Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and [of] the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Contradiction with Mark 16:16
Here, belief is paired with baptism for salvation, seemingly adding a requirement alongside the confession of faith presented in Acts 8:37.
Mark 16:16: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Contradiction with James 2:24
This verse highlights that a person is justified by works and not by faith only, suggesting a more complex relationship between faith and actions compared to the simple proclamation in Acts 8:37.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Contradiction with Romans 10:9
While similar in focusing on belief and confession, this verse outlines a slightly different process for salvation that emphasizes verbal confession with the mouth, not just believing with the heart as in Acts 8:37.
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.
Paradox #1
There is a theological inconsistency with Acts 8:37 because this verse is not found in many of the earliest manuscripts of the Book of Acts. It appears to have been added later and thus raises questions about the authenticity and reliability of the text. Some readers see it as an inconsistency since it introduces a profession of faith that is absent from earlier versions. This can cause confusion about the requirements for baptism and conversion as expressed in the earliest Christian teachings.
Paradox #2
Acts 8:37 is controversial because some ancient manuscripts do not include it, while others do. This can lead to questions about its authenticity and consistency with other scriptural texts. The verse involves a confession of faith that matches Christian beliefs, but its absence in some manuscripts makes people wonder if it was a later addition. This raises concerns about the accuracy and consistency of biblical texts.
Paradox #3
Acts 8:37 is not found in many of the earliest and most reliable manuscripts of the Bible. This has led to discussions about whether it was part of the original text or added later. Therefore, some versions of the Bible include it, while others leave it out, leading to inconsistencies in different translations.