Contradictions and Paradoxes in John 16:32

Check out Contradictions Catalog of John 16:32 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts John 16:32. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to John, Jesus is telling his friends that soon they will all run away and leave him by himself, but even then, he won't be truly alone because God, his Father, will still be with him. Jesus is teaching that even if people leave us, God is always there to be with us.

John 16:32: Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. [his own: or, his own home]

Contradiction with Matthew 28:20

John 16:32 mentions a time when everyone will leave Jesus alone, yet Matthew 28:20 highlights His promise to always be with His disciples.

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 Hebrews 13:5

John 16:32 speaks of Jesus being left alone, but Hebrews 13:5 assures that God will never leave or forsake believers.

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 Psalm 139:7-10

John 16:32 implies abandonment, whereas Psalm 139:7-10 affirms that God's presence is inescapable.

Psalm 139:7-10: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 31:6

John 16:32 predicts separation from Jesus, contrasting Deuteronomy 31:6's declaration that God will not leave nor forsake His followers.

Deuteronomy 31:6: Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Contradiction with Joshua 1:9

John 16:32 suggests a moment of solitude for Jesus, while Joshua 1:9 emphasizes God's constant companionship and strength.

Joshua 1:9: Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Paradox #1

One potential contradiction in John 16:32 could be the idea of abandonment. On one hand, it suggests that people may leave or abandon someone in difficult times. On the other hand, it highlights the presence of divine companionship or support, suggesting you're never truly alone. The tension lies in the expectation of human support versus divine assurance.

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