Contradiction with Matthew 5:10
This verse suggests that those persecuted for righteousness' sake are blessed, whereas John 15:20 implies persecution as a cause-and-effect for following Jesus.
Matthew 5:10: Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Contradiction with Romans 12:14
This verse advises blessing those who persecute you, which contrasts the anticipated negative response highlighted in John 15:20.
Romans 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 3:12
States that all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution, potentially implying an inevitability rather than the conditional statement of John 15:20.
2 Timothy 3:12: Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
Contradiction with Proverbs 16:7
Suggests that when a person's ways please the Lord, even their enemies will be at peace with them, conflicting with the assurance of persecution in John 15:20.
Proverbs 16:7: When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Paradox #1
John 15:20 could be seen as having a moral conflict because it discusses the idea of persecution. While it emphasizes following Jesus' teachings, it also suggests that followers will face persecution. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of a loving and just world, as enduring suffering might feel contradictory to a just life according to moral standards.