Contradiction with Romans 10:16
This verse claims not all have obeyed the gospel, implying divine prediction of disbelief, while John 12:38 suggests fulfillment of a prophecy of disbelief.
Romans 10:16: But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? [our report: Gr. the hearing of us?] [report: or, preaching?]
Contradiction with Isaiah 53:1
In John 12:38, fulfillment of this prophetic question indicates disbelief was foreseen, but it raises the paradox of divine predestination versus free will.
Isaiah 53:1: Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? [report: or, doctrine?: Heb. hearing?]
Contradiction with Acts 28:24-27
Here, some believe, contrasting John's suggestion that the lack of belief fulfills prophecy uniformly, presenting tension between prophecy fulfillment and individual choice.
Acts 28:24-27: And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
Contradiction with John 3:16
This verse asserts that whoever believes shall not perish, highlighting the possibility of belief in contradiction to John 12:38's implication of unbelief fulfillment.
John 3:16: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Contradiction with Matthew 13:15
Suggests a potential for people to understand and convert, which contrasts with the deterministic fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy mentioned in John 12:38.
Matthew 13:15: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and [their] ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and should understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency related to "John 12:38" involves the interpretation and fulfillment of prophecy. The verse cites the prophet Isaiah, suggesting that Isaiah's words predicted events in Jesus' life. Some scholars debate whether this is a correct interpretation of the original context of Isaiah's prophecy, raising questions about the accuracy of the New Testament authors in linking Old Testament prophecies to New Testament events. This discrepancy can lead to discussions about the methods and intentions behind biblical prophecy fulfillment.