Contradiction with James 1:5
Mark 11:31 depicts people as uncertain and wavering in their questioning, whereas James 1:5 promises wisdom to those who ask God without doubt.
James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Mark 11:31 shows human reliance on reasoning and debate, while Proverbs 3:5 urges trust in the Lord rather than one's own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Matthew 21:25
Mark 11:31 conveys indecision about John's authority, but Matthew 21:25 indicates people knew the implications of John's baptism being from heaven.
Matthew 21:25: The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him?
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:33
Mark 11:31 reflects confusion and contention over authority, while 1 Corinthians 14:33 states that God is not the author of confusion but of peace.
1 Corinthians 14:33: For God is not [the author] of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. [confusion: Gr. tumult, or, unquietness]
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Mark 11:31 involves the religious leaders' hesitation to answer Jesus about the origin of John the Baptist's authority. They are conflicted because acknowledging John's divine mission would validate Jesus, but dismissing it could upset the people who believed John was a true prophet. This reflects the leaders' fear of losing credibility with the public and highlights their inconsistent beliefs based on public opinion rather than truth.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in Mark 11:31 could involve the challenge of honesty versus fear of public opinion. The leaders in the verse are faced with telling the truth about their beliefs, but they hesitate because they fear people's reactions. This suggests a conflict between being truthful and the desire to maintain social approval.