Contradiction with John 1:26
John 1:31 explains John's role in revealing Jesus to Israel, while John 1:26 suggests people did not recognize Jesus standing among them.
John 1:26: John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not;
Contradiction with Matthew 11:2-3
John 1:31 implies John knew Jesus' identity, whereas Matthew 11:2-3 shows John questioning if Jesus was the Messiah.
Matthew 11:2-3: Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,
Contradiction with John 1:34
John 1:31 mentions John did not know Jesus, but John 1:34 asserts John bore witness that Jesus is the Son of God.
John 1:34: And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
Contradiction with Matthew 3:14
John 1:31 implies John did not previously know Jesus, while Matthew 3:14 suggests John recognized Jesus’ significance before the baptism.
Matthew 3:14: But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
Contradiction with Luke 7:19
John 1:31 indicates John's role in revealing Jesus, yet in Luke 7:19, John sends disciples to ask if Jesus is the one to come.
Luke 7:19: And John calling [unto him] two of his disciples sent [them] to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?
Contradiction with John 1:15
John 1:31 suggests a lack of initial recognition, whereas John 1:15 has John proclaiming Jesus' preeminence almost immediately.
John 1:15: John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
Contradiction with John 3:27-30
John 1:31 points to John's gradual recognition, yet John 3:27-30 shows John clearly understanding Jesus’ role earlier on.
John 3:27-30: John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. [receive: or, take unto himself]