Contradiction with Proverbs 16:9
While Proverbs 16:9 emphasizes the role of the Lord in directing a man's steps, Luke 1:17 speaks of turning the hearts and aligning disobedient to the wisdom of the just, indicating human agency in aligning with divine will.
Proverbs 16:9: A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:23
Jeremiah 10:23 states that man cannot direct his own steps, which seems to contradict the agency given to John the Baptist in turning hearts in Luke 1:17.
Jeremiah 10:23: O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
Contradiction with Romans 3:10
Romans 3:10 states that no one is righteous, not even one, which contrasts with the implication in Luke 1:17 that people can turn towards righteousness.
Romans 3:10: As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:20
Ecclesiastes 7:20 mentions there is not a just man upon earth; this conflicts with the mission in Luke 1:17 to prepare a people justified to meet the Lord.
Ecclesiastes 7:20: For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.
Paradox #1
One potential inconsistency with Luke 1:17 could arise when comparing different interpretations of John's role as outlined in the verse. Some readers may see a contradiction regarding whether John the Baptist or Elijah himself prepares people for the Lord, considering other biblical passages that describe Elijah's return. This can create confusion about identity and fulfillment of prophecy. However, interpretations vary, and many theologians reconcile these views by understanding them in a symbolic rather than literal context.