Contradiction with Matthew 10:39
It says he who finds his life will lose it, which aligns with the theme of John 12:25 about losing one's life to gain it, but the phrasing suggests the potential for contradiction in understanding what it means to "find" or "lose" life.
Matthew 10:39: He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Contradiction with Mark 8:35
Like John 12:25, it talks about losing one’s life to save it, but it does so in a slightly different context, potentially leading to differing interpretations of the conditions or meaning of losing one’s life for Christ's sake.
Mark 8:35: For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
Contradiction with Luke 9:24
Similar to John 12:25, it states that whoever wants to save their life will lose it, yet the subtle differences in context can present contradictions in interpreting the passage’s full intent.
Luke 9:24: For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.
Contradiction with Matthew 16:25
It echoes John 12:25’s sentiment about saving and losing life, but the variation in expressions could lead to a perceived contradiction in comprehending the practical application.
Matthew 16:25: For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
Contradiction with Luke 17:33
It delivers a message parallel to John 12:25 about life preservation and loss, but depending on its interpretative context, it can be seen as contradicting in terms of when and how these actions occur.
Luke 17:33: Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a conflict between this verse and the idea of loving and valuing life as a gift from God. The verse suggests denying one's own life, which can seem contradictory to scriptures that encourage stewardship and appreciation of life. Balancing self-denial with the belief in the sanctity and purpose of life can create tension.
Paradox #2
John 12:25 talks about loving one's life and losing it versus hating one's life and keeping it for eternal life. The contradiction or conflict here could be that it seems to promote a negative perspective on valuing one's life, which can be confusing or problematic. Generally, we are encouraged to value and cherish our lives and well-being. This verse might appear to encourage neglect or disregard for one's current life in favor of focusing solely on the afterlife, which can be seen as inconsistent with the idea of living a balanced and fulfilling life on earth.