Contradiction with Matthew 27:44
This verse states that both of the thieves crucified with Jesus mocked him, contradicting Luke 23:39, where only one thief reviles Jesus.
Matthew 27:44: The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.
Contradiction with Mark 15:32
Similarly indicates that those crucified with Jesus also reviled him, contrary to Luke 23:39, which separates one thief as the reviler.
Mark 15:32: Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.
Contradiction with Luke 23:40-41
Just a couple of verses after, it shows the other thief rebuking the reviling thief, which suggests that not both were mocking Jesus as stated in Matthew and Mark, thus creating a contradiction in the narrative surrounding Luke 23:39.
Luke 23:40-41: But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?
Paradox #1
One possible historical inconsistency is that different Gospel accounts describe the behavior of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus differently. In Luke, one criminal mocks Jesus while the other defends him, asking to be remembered when Jesus comes into his kingdom. However, in the Gospel of Matthew and Mark, both criminals are described as mocking Jesus. This difference raises questions about which account is accurate.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency could be seen in the idea of justice and forgiveness. One criminal mocks Jesus while being punished, which might suggest a lack of remorse or recognition of wrongdoing. This could conflict with the concept of justice where acknowledgment of wrongdoing is often necessary for forgiveness. The tension lies in understanding how forgiveness is extended or withheld based on behavior or attitude.