Contradiction with Genesis 2:24
This verse supports the idea of one marriage bond, whereas John 4:18 suggests multiple marriages.
Genesis 2:24: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:9
While John 4:18 acknowledges divorce, this verse limits divorce to cases of infidelity.
Matthew 19:9: And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except [it be] for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Contradiction with Mark 10:11-12
This verse teaches that divorcing and remarrying is adultery, contradicting the acceptance of multiple marriages in John 4:18.
Mark 10:11-12: And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.
Contradiction with Romans 7:2-3
Highlights the binding nature of marriage until death, conflicting with the multiple marriages mentioned in John 4:18.
Romans 7:2-3: For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to [her] husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of [her] husband.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 3:2
States that a church leader must be the husband of one wife, contrasting with the woman's multiple husbands in John 4:18.
1 Timothy 3:2: A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; [of good...: or, modest]
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction in John 4:18 could relate to the societal norms and judgments on relationships. While the verse acknowledges a non-traditional relationship, it might conflict with the teachings on the sanctity of marriage in other parts of the Bible. This could lead to inconsistent interpretations about forgiveness, judgment, and the status of various relationships.