Contradiction with Acts 5:29
This verse contradicts Mark 12:17 by emphasizing obedience to God over obedience to human authorities.
Acts 5:29: Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:24
This verse contradicts Mark 12:17 by stating that one cannot serve two masters, implying a conflict in serving both God and earthly rulers.
Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Contradiction with Isaiah 33:22
This verse contradicts Mark 12:17 by declaring that God is the only lawgiver and king, challenging the legitimacy of earthly rulers' authority.
Isaiah 33:22: For the LORD [is] our judge, the LORD [is] our lawgiver, the LORD [is] our king; he will save us. [lawgiver: Heb. statutemaker]
Contradiction with Revelation 11:15
This verse contradicts Mark 12:17 by proclaiming the kingdoms of the world become the kingdoms of God, suggesting that earthly authorities are subsumed by divine rule.
Revelation 11:15: And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
Contradiction with Philippians 3:20
This verse contradicts Mark 12:17 by asserting that believers' citizenship is in heaven, questioning their obligation to earthly authorities.
Philippians 3:20: For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [conversation...: or, we live or conduct ourselves as citizens of heaven, or, for obtaining heaven]
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction because the verse suggests a separation between civic duties and religious duties, but other parts of the Bible emphasize that God has authority over all aspects of life. This can create tension about whether one should prioritize religious laws over secular laws or if they should remain separate.
Paradox #2
Mark 12:17 urges followers to give to governing authorities what belongs to them and to give to God what belongs to God. Some see a contradiction when compared to other parts of the Bible that emphasize God's sovereignty over everything, suggesting nothing truly belongs to earthly rulers. This might create tension between religious duties and civic obligations.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency could arise from differing interpretations of the relationship between religious and political responsibilities. Some people see this verse as endorsing the separation of church and state, while others interpret it as highlighting a potential conflict between following religious beliefs and obeying governmental authority. This can lead to discussions on how to balance these duties when they seem to clash in real-world scenarios.
Paradox #4
Mark 12:17 could be seen as having a contradiction or conflict because it suggests a division between religious and civic responsibilities. Some people might find it challenging to balance their duty to their faith with their obligations as citizens, as these can sometimes clash. The verse might be interpreted as allowing room for potential conflict between serving God and adhering to governing authorities, which might not always align.