Contradiction with 1 Kings 17:1
This verse indicates Elijah had already declared the drought, suggesting he initiated it, whereas James 5:18 credits his prayer with ending it.
1 Kings 17:1: And Elijah the Tishbite, [who was] of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, [As] the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word. [Elijah: Heb. Elijahu: Gr. Elias]
Contradiction with 1 Kings 18:1
God decides to send rain, seemingly independently of Elijah's actions, contradicting the idea that Elijah's prayer alone ended the drought as per James 5:18.
1 Kings 18:1: And it came to pass [after] many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the third year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 14:22
This verse attributes the provision of rain solely to God, contrasting with James 5:18 where Elijah's prayer appears to have direct influence.
Jeremiah 14:22: Are there [any] among the vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give showers? [art] not thou he, O LORD our God? therefore we will wait upon thee: for thou hast made all these [things].
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 11:17
Indicates God controls rain as a consequence of behavior, not individual prayer, differing from how Elijah's prayer in James 5:18 directly results in rain.
Deuteronomy 11:17: And [then] the LORD'S wrath be kindled against you, and he shut up the heaven, that there be no rain, and that the land yield not her fruit; and [lest] ye perish quickly from off the good land which the LORD giveth you.