Contradiction with John 14:3
John 8:21 mentions Jesus going away and others not being able to follow; John 14:3 promises that Jesus will return and take believers to be with Him.
John 14:3: And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also.
Contradiction with Matthew 28:20
John 8:21 speaks of Jesus leaving, but Matthew 28:20 assures believers that He is with them always, even to the end of the world.
Matthew 28:20: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.
Contradiction with John 13:36-37
In John 8:21, Jesus says they cannot follow Him, but in John 13:36-37, Jesus tells Peter he will follow later.
John 13:36-37: Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.
Contradiction with Acts 1:11
John 8:21 references Jesus leaving without followers, but Acts 1:11 assures that Jesus will return in the same manner as He left.
Acts 1:11: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:5
John 8:21 mentions going away, suggesting absence, whereas Hebrews 13:5 promises that God will never leave nor forsake believers.
Hebrews 13:5: [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Contradiction with John 14:18
John 8:21 indicates going away, but John 14:18 promises not to leave believers comfortless, indicating presence.
John 14:18: I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. [comfortless: or, orphans]
Paradox #1
Theological discussions around John 8:21 may focus on its implications for the concepts of salvation and belief in Jesus. Some might see a conflict between the implications of people not being able to follow Jesus due to their unbelief and the broader biblical message of God desiring all people to be saved. This could raise questions about free will and predestination. However, interpretations vary widely, and some may not see any contradiction at all.