Mark 15:5 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Mark, Jesus stayed quiet and did not speak when Pilate was asking questions, and this surprised Pilate a lot. Christians often understand this to mean that Jesus was brave and knew what was going to happen, so He didn’t feel the need to defend Himself.

Contradiction with Acts 26:1-2

In Acts, Paul speaks freely to King Agrippa, contrary to the silence of Jesus before Pilate in Mark 15:5.

Acts 26:1-2: Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

Contradiction with John 18:37

Here, Jesus acknowledges He is a king, which contrasts His silence in Mark 15:5.

John 18:37: Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

Contradiction with Matthew 27:11

Jesus affirms Pilate's question, "Thou sayest," unlike His silence in Mark 15:5.

Matthew 27:11: And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

Contradiction with John 19:11

Jesus speaks to Pilate about authority, differing from His silence in Mark 15:5.

John 19:11: Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power [at all] against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:63-64

Jesus proclaims being the Son of God, showing contrast to His silence in Mark 15:5.

Matthew 26:63-64: Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

Contradiction with Luke 23:3

Jesus responds to Pilate affirmatively, unlike His silence in Mark 15:5.