Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 2:14
Suggests that natural man cannot understand spiritual truths, conflicting with the idea that earthly things should be believed before understanding heavenly things.
1 Corinthians 2:14: But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Encourages complete trust in the Lord and not to lean on one's own understanding, which may seem at odds with the expectation of belief without evidence.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Matthew 13:11
Indicates that knowledge of heavenly mysteries is given to some and not others, which could contradict the notion of belief based on testimony alone.
Matthew 13:11: He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:8-9
Expresses that God's ways and thoughts are higher than human understanding, suggesting a gap in comprehending divine teachings.
Isaiah 55:8-9: For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:20
Calls for maturity in understanding spiritual matters, which may contradict the implication of belief in simpler earthly testimonies leading to acceptance of deeper truths.
1 Corinthians 14:20: Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. [men: Gr. perfect, or, of a ripe age]
Contradiction with Hebrews 11:6
States that faith is necessary to please God and to understand His existence, emphasizing faith over understanding of earthly matters.
Hebrews 11:6: But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or conflict in John 3:12 arises when considering the different interpretations of "earthly things" versus "heavenly things." Some people might find it challenging to reconcile how teachings about tangible, earthly matters relate to abstract, spiritual concepts. The difficulty lies in understanding how these two kinds of knowledge relate to belief and understanding within the broader context of faith. However, this is often seen more as a challenge of interpretation rather than a direct contradiction.