Contradiction with Luke 18:22
Luke 18:22 emphasizes selling possessions and giving to the poor, which contradicts John 12:8's implication that the poor will always remain.
Luke 18:22: Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:21
Matthew 19:21 instructs to sell possessions and give to the poor, which contrasts with John 12:8's acceptance of the ongoing presence of poverty.
Matthew 19:21: Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come [and] follow me.
Contradiction with Acts 2:44-45
Acts 2:44-45 describes the early church sharing all possessions to ensure no one was in need, contrasting with the indifference to poverty suggested in John 12:8.
Acts 2:44-45: And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
Contradiction with Proverbs 28:27
Proverbs 28:27 stresses giving to the poor to avoid want, which contrasts with the notion in John 12:8 that the poor will always be present.
Proverbs 28:27: He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
Contradiction with James 2:15-16
James 2:15-16 highlights the necessity of addressing the physical needs of the poor, which can seem at odds with the idea in John 12:8 that they will always be present.
James 2:15-16: If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction in John 12:8 because it seems to suggest that caring for the poor is less important in certain situations. This can be seen as inconsistent with other teachings in the Bible that emphasize helping those in need. The apparent conflict comes from balancing the importance of worship and devotion with the need to help the less fortunate.
Paradox #2
John 12:8 could potentially be seen as conflicting with other biblical teachings about taking care of the poor. Some other parts of the Bible emphasize helping the needy and prioritizing their welfare, whereas this verse might seem to suggest a different focus. This could lead to a perceived inconsistency about the importance of addressing poverty.
Paradox #3
The verse suggests prioritizing Jesus over helping the poor. The moral conflict arises as it might seem to go against teachings on helping those in need. Some may see it as inconsistent with the idea of caring for others, which is emphasized in other parts of the Bible.