Contradiction with Matthew 17:20
This verse states that having faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains, which contradicts the doubt and questioning of authority seen in Mark 11:32.
Matthew 17:20: And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:19
This verse describes the wisdom of this world as foolishness with God, contrasting with the reliance on human reasoning suggested by the leaders' indecision in Mark 11:32.
1 Corinthians 3:19: For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Contradiction with James 1:6-7
This passage emphasizes the importance of asking in faith without doubting to receive from God, challenging the uncertainty reflected in Mark 11:32.
James 1:6-7: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Mark 11:32 might arise from the religious leaders' fear of public opinion versus divine authority. They were concerned about how people perceived John the Baptist's authority as being from God, yet they were unwilling to acknowledge it openly due to fear of losing their own status or causing unrest. This highlights a conflict between human authority and divine truth, where acknowledging the divine could undermine their earthly authority.
Paradox #2
Mark 11:32 presents a situation where the religious leaders are concerned about how their beliefs appear to the public rather than focusing on what is true or right. The contradiction here is prioritizing image and reputation over sincerity and honesty, which can conflict with the value of truthfulness.