Contradiction with Matthew 26:53
This verse speaks of Jesus saying he could call on more than twelve legions of angels for rescue, contrasting Isaiah 53:12's portrayal of a servant willingly accepting suffering and sacrifice.
Matthew 26:53: But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?
Contradiction with John 18:36
Jesus states that his kingdom is not of this world and defends his servants from fighting, seemingly contradicting the idea of being "numbered with the transgressors" in Isaiah 53:12, which suggests a more earthly engagement.
John 18:36: Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
Contradiction with Mark 15:32
The call for Christ to come down from the cross and save himself contradicts Isaiah 53:12's emphasis on sacrificing and bearing the sins of many.
Mark 15:32: Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.
Contradiction with Luke 23:39
The thief mocking Jesus and challenging him to save himself contrasts with the notion in Isaiah 53:12 of a figure bearing others' sins selflessly.
Luke 23:39: And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
Contradiction with Matthew 27:40
The taunt of Jesus to save himself if he is truly the Son of God opposes Isaiah 53:12’s example of surrender and sacrifice for others.
Matthew 27:40: And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest [it] in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
Contradiction with John 12:47
Here Jesus speaks of not coming to judge the world, differing from Isaiah 53:12, which attributes to him the role of bearing and interceding for transgressors.
John 12:47: And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
Jesus says he came to call sinners to repentance, contrasting the role of bearing iniquities in Isaiah 53:12.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction in this verse regarding the concept of the suffering servant being both punished and exalted. On one hand, the servant suffers and is numbered with transgressors; on the other hand, he is said to be rewarded and given a portion among the great. This can seem inconsistent with how justice and punishment are usually understood.
Paradox #2
Isaiah 53:12 describes a figure who bears the sins of others and intercedes for transgressors. Some people might see a contradiction or conflict with other parts of the Bible that emphasize individual responsibility for sin or the idea that only God can forgive sins. This can lead to different interpretations about who this figure is and what their role is in relation to God and human sinfulness.
Paradox #3
One potential contradiction in Isaiah 53:12 is the idea of an innocent suffering servant being punished for the sins of others. This might seem unjust, as it suggests that someone who has done no wrong is bearing the consequences of others' actions. It raises questions about the fairness of such vicarious suffering and punishment.