Contradiction with Numbers 21:9
In Exodus 4:3, a serpent is a source of fear and danger, while in Numbers 21:9, a serpent is a source of healing and salvation.
Numbers 21:9: And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:10
Exodus 4:3 depicts serpents negatively, but Matthew 7:10 suggests giving a serpent as a contrary gift to something good, highlighting an ironic contrast.
Matthew 7:10: Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?
Contradiction with John 3:14
Exodus 4:3 shows a serpent as a sign of transformation and fear, whereas in John 3:14, the serpent is lifted up as a symbol of eventual salvation, not as a threat.
John 3:14: And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
Contradiction with Isaiah 11:8
In Exodus 4:3, a serpent causes fear; however, in Isaiah 11:8, serpents are harmless, even to a child.
Isaiah 11:8: And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den. [cockatrice': or, adder's]
Contradiction with Isaiah 65:25
Exodus 4:3 depicts serpents as dangerous, whereas Isaiah 65:25 envisions a peaceful coexistence with serpents, showing a world without harm.
Isaiah 65:25: The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust [shall be] the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.
Paradox #1
The scientific inconsistency in the verse involves a staff turning into a snake and then back into a staff when picked up. In the natural world, inanimate objects like a staff do not transform into living creatures such as snakes. This type of transformation defies the laws of biology and physics as understood by science.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Exodus 4:3 could relate to the idea of using fear or miraculous signs to convince others of one's authority or divine mission. Some might see a conflict with the broader message of trust and faith being based on understanding and love rather than fear or supernatural displays.