Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Isaiah 40:3 encourages preparing a way in the wilderness, while Proverbs advises trusting in the Lord without relying on one's own understanding, which could conflict with taking proactive steps based on one's own initiative.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:13
Isaiah 40:3 speaks of preparing a straight path, while the verse in Matthew speaks of a narrow gate and a difficult path leading to life, suggesting different ideas of the "way" one should follow.
Matthew 7:13: Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [strait: or, narrow]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:5
Isaiah 40:3 involves human action in preparing the way, whereas Jeremiah warns against trusting in human effort, implying that divine help is essential over actions.
Jeremiah 17:5: Thus saith the LORD; Cursed [be] the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.
Contradiction with Luke 17:20-21
Isaiah 40:3 suggests a preparatory action for the Lord's coming, while Luke indicates the Kingdom of God does not come with observable signs but is within people, contradicting the concept of external preparation.
Luke 17:20-21: And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: [with...: or, with outward shew]
Paradox #1
Isaiah 40:3 is often associated with the prophecy about John the Baptist in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels. The potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise from different interpretations of whether this verse originally referred to preparing a way for God in a more general sense in the Hebrew Bible or specifically to the coming of Jesus as Christians interpret it. Additionally, some may argue about the historical context of the prophecy and its intended audience, possibly leading to different understandings between Jewish and Christian traditions.