Contradiction with Matthew 7:12
John 13:15 encourages following Jesus' example of service and humility, while Matthew 7:12 emphasizes treating others as you would like to be treated, which may not always align directly with imitating Jesus' specific actions.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Contradiction with Luke 11:46
John 13:15 suggests following Christ’s humble examples, whereas Luke 11:46 criticizes religious leaders for imposing burdens without assisting, revealing an apparent conflict between enacted religious burden and personal example.
Luke 11:46: And he said, Woe unto you also, [ye] lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.
Contradiction with Mark 10:21
John 13:15 implies serving others as an example, whereas Mark 10:21 focuses on sacrifice and giving everything to follow Jesus, which may not strictly align with the notion of just following his example.
Mark 10:21: Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
Contradiction with Galatians 2:21
John 13:15 calls for imitation of Christ's actions, while Galatians 2:21 emphasizes righteousness through faith in Christ, indicating potential contradiction between action-based and faith-based righteousness.
Galatians 2:21: I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness [come] by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Contradiction with James 2:24
John 13:15 suggests following Jesus’ example through actions, whereas James 2:24 states that faith and actions are needed for justification, suggesting that imitation alone is insufficient.
James 2:24: Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in John 13:15 could be that while it teaches followers to act with humility and serve others, this can be challenging to reconcile with the hierarchical structures and power dynamics present in some religious institutions and societies. People might find it difficult to practice such humility and service when authority figures or cultural norms prioritize status and power.