Contradictions and Paradoxes in John 16:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of John 16:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts John 16:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to John, Jesus is telling His friends that He will go away for a short time, but then they will see Him again because He is going to be with God. He is helping them understand that even if they can't see Him for a bit, He will come back.

John 16:16: A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.

Contradiction with Matthew 28:20

Contradicts by promising continuous presence, unlike John 16:16, where Jesus speaks of leaving.

Matthew 28:20: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Contradiction with Acts 1:9

Jesus ascends to heaven visibly, which contrasts with John 16:16's less explicit leaving and returning.

Acts 1:9: And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

Contradiction with John 14:18

Promises not to leave believers comfortless, conflicting with the idea of leaving in John 16:16.

John 14:18: I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. [comfortless: or, orphans]

Contradiction with Hebrews 13:5

States God will never leave nor forsake, differing from the temporary separation implied in John 16:16.

Hebrews 13:5: [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:11

Mentions Jesus will not always be physically present, aligning with but extending beyond John 16:16's brief absence.

Matthew 26:11: For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.
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