Contradiction with Matthew 28:18
Matthew 28:18 contradicts Mark 10:40 as it states that all authority in heaven and on earth is given to Jesus, whereas Mark 10:40 suggests that some positions are prepared by the Father and not Jesus’s to give.
Matthew 28:18: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Contradiction with John 5:22
John 5:22 contradicts Mark 10:40 by stating that all judgment is given to the Son, implying authority over deciding positions, which contrasts with “not mine to give” in Mark 10:40.
John 5:22: For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
Contradiction with Philippians 2:9-11
Philippians 2:9-11 contradicts Mark 10:40 by indicating that Jesus is exalted above all, which seems to conflict with the notion that certain positions are not his to assign.
Philippians 2:9-11: Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Mark 10:40 could relate to the issue of divine authority and preordination. Some might see a conflict between human desires or requests and God's ultimate authority in deciding roles and positions in the divine realm. It raises questions about how much control humans have over their spiritual destiny versus what is predestined by God.
Paradox #2
Mark 10:40 might present a contradiction or inconsistency related to the expectations of positions of honor in the coming kingdom, which differ from other accounts in the Bible regarding who might sit at Jesus' side. Additionally, it challenges the understanding of authority and divine choice, as it conflicts with disciples' expectations and assumptions about power and status.