Contradiction with John 3:18
This verse states that belief in Jesus is necessary to avoid condemnation, which may contrast with John 12:44’s focus on the broader belief in God through Jesus.
John 3:18: He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
Contradiction with Romans 10:9
Emphasizes the necessity of confessing Jesus as Lord and believing specifically in His resurrection for salvation, creating a more defined criterion for belief compared to John 12:44's general faith in God through Jesus.
Romans 10:9: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Contradiction with James 2:19
Points out that even demons believe in one God and tremble, suggesting that belief alone, as mentioned in John 12:44, might be insufficient without actions.
James 2:19: Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:21
Stresses that merely calling on the Lord (or belief) is not enough without doing the will of the Father, which may contradict the simplicity suggested in John 12:44.
Matthew 7:21: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Paradox #1
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict could be seen in the relationship between believing in Jesus and believing in God. Some might argue it creates an exclusionary view, possibly conflicting with other beliefs about accessing God or spirituality without Jesus, which can be seen differently in other world religions or philosophies. This could cause tension for those who value inclusivity or interfaith perspectives.