Contradiction with Luke 10:27
This verse emphasizes loving God with all one's heart and soul, whereas John 21:17 focuses on Peter's love for Jesus as a declaration of personal devotion, highlighting a specific interpersonal relationship rather than a comprehensive commandment.
Luke 10:27: And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.
Contradiction with Matthew 26:33-35
In this verse, Peter claims he will not deny Jesus, which contrasts with John 21:17 where Peter is reaffirming his love after having previously denied Jesus three times.
Matthew 26:33-35: Peter answered and said unto him, Though all [men] shall be offended because of thee, [yet] will I never be offended. [offended: or, though the faith of other men should be shaken and fail, yet mine will be firm and constant]
Contradiction with John 13:37-38
Peter expresses his willingness to lay down his life for Jesus, contrasting with John 21:17 where Peter is questioned about his love after failing to uphold his previous statements of loyalty.
John 13:37-38: Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.
Paradox #1
John 21:17 centers around Jesus asking Peter if he loves Him, leading to a command to care for His followers. A potential moral inconsistency could arise if one interprets this directive as conflicting with other biblical teachings that emphasize faith over works. The tension here might be between demonstrating love through actions versus the belief that faith alone is essential. This could confuse some about the balance between belief and deeds in showing true devotion.