Contradiction with Proverbs 4:19
The verse describes the way of the wicked as darkness, contradicting John 9:41 where the Pharisees claim they see, yet remain guilty.
Proverbs 4:19: The way of the wicked [is] as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
Contradiction with Matthew 13:13
This verse explains that seeing, they do not see; and hearing, they do not hear, contradicting the Pharisees' claim of sight in John 9:41.
Matthew 13:13: Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
Contradiction with Mark 4:12
It describes seeing but not perceiving, which contradicts the Pharisees' assertion of sight and knowledge in John 9:41.
Mark 4:12: That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and [their] sins should be forgiven them.
Contradiction with John 12:40
It states that God has blinded their eyes, contradicting the Pharisees’ statement in John 9:41 about their ability to see.
John 12:40: He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with [their] eyes, nor understand with [their] heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 4:4
This verse mentions that the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, conflicting with the claim of sight in John 9:41.
2 Corinthians 4:4: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Contradiction with 1 John 2:11
It suggests that those who hate are in darkness and blindness, which contradicts the Pharisees' claim in John 9:41 that they can see.
1 John 2:11: But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
Paradox #1
John 9:41 might present a theological conflict in terms of accountability and spiritual awareness. Jesus suggests that those who are unaware of their spiritual blindness are not guilty, but those who claim to see yet are blind to the truth bear responsibility for their sin. This raises the question of the extent of one's accountability when they are unaware of their spiritual condition. How can someone be guilty for believing in their ability to see when they are not aware of their blindness? This can appear inconsistent when considering concepts of sin and knowledge.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in John 9:41 could be seen as the idea that recognizing one's own shortcomings or ignorance could lead to being held accountable, while those unaware might not be. It might seem unfair or inconsistent that becoming aware of one's flaws increases responsibility, which could discourage awareness and growth.