Contradictions and Paradoxes in John 13:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of John 13:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts John 13:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to John, Jesus got up from the dinner table, took off his outer clothes, and wrapped a towel around his waist. This showed he was ready to serve his friends, even though he was their teacher.

John 13:4: He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.

Contradiction with Luke 22:27

Jesus speaks of serving others and contrasts it with how leaders behave, but does not literally perform a servant's task.

Luke 22:27: For whether [is] greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? [is] not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.

Contradiction with Mark 10:45

Jesus came not to be served, but to serve, contradicting the act of taking a servant’s form for one task.

Mark 10:45: For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Contradiction with Philippians 2:7

Describes Jesus taking the form of a servant, yet emphasizes humility over acts of service like washing feet.

Philippians 2:7: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Contradiction with Matthew 20:28

Jesus is described as serving by giving his life, which contrasts a singular servant act like washing feet.

Matthew 20:28: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

Contradiction with John 1:14

Describes Jesus as full of glory and truth, which appears to contradict the humble act of donning a servant's towel.

John 1:14: And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
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