Contradictions and Paradoxes in John 12:36

Check out Contradictions Catalog of John 12:36 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts John 12:36. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to John, Jesus is saying that while He is with them and teaching them, they should believe in Him so they can be good and shine bright like a light. After saying this, Jesus went away and hid to give them time to think about His words.

John 12:36: While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.

Contradiction with John 1:9

John 1:9 refers to the "true Light, which lighteth every man" indicating the accessibility of light to all, contrasting with the selective belief and becoming "children of light" in John 12:36.

John 1:9: [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:16

Here, individuals are encouraged to let their light shine before others, whereas John 12:36 emphasizes belief to become "children of light," which suggests a precondition.

Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 6:14

This advises believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers because of light and darkness, whereas John 12:36 presents being children of light as a process still yet to be completed.

2 Corinthians 6:14: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

Contradiction with Ephesians 5:8

This verse states that believers already are light in the Lord, in contrast to John 12:36 which calls for belief to become children of light.

Ephesians 5:8: For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:9

Describes believers as a "chosen generation" and already a people of light, unlike John 12:36 that suggests transformation is necessary to become children of light.

1 Peter 2:9: But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: [peculiar: or, purchased] [praises: or, virtues]
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.