Contradiction with Matthew 13:54-55
John 7:15 points out the Jews' astonishment at Jesus' learning without formal education, while Matthew 13:54-55 mentions people questioning His wisdom and mighty works as the son of a carpenter, implying they knew His background.
Matthew 13:54-55: And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this [man] this wisdom, and [these] mighty works?
Contradiction with Mark 6:2-3
This verse expresses amazement at Jesus' wisdom and works, knowing His family and upbringing, contrasting with the surprise in John 7:15 regarding His education.
Mark 6:2-3: And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing [him] were astonished, saying, From whence hath this [man] these things? and what wisdom [is] this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?
Contradiction with Luke 4:22
The verse describes people speaking well of Jesus and being amazed at His gracious words, acknowledging Him as Joseph's son, differing from the questioning of His learning in John 7:15.
Luke 4:22: And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?
Contradiction with John 6:42
The people's recognition of Jesus as Joseph's son contradicts John 7:15, where they question His knowledge without formal learning.
John 6:42: And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?
Contradiction with Acts 4:13
The astonishment at Peter and John’s boldness despite being unlearned and ignorant men contrasts with the amazement at Jesus’ teachings in John 7:15, highlighting the perception of lack of formal training.
Acts 4:13: Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or inconsistency in John 7:15 might be regarding how Jesus, portrayed as not having formal education, could speak with such knowledge. This could create conflict when considering Jesus' wisdom and teaching in other parts of the Bible where his understanding and authority are emphasized. Some readers may find it inconsistent that Jesus, acknowledged for his profound teaching, is simultaneously noted as lacking formal learning.