Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 14:22
This verse states that tongues are a sign for unbelievers, while Mark 16:17 implies signs follow believers.
1 Corinthians 14:22: Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying [serveth] not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:22-23
These verses suggest that performing signs in Jesus' name does not guarantee one's relationship with Him, contrary to the implication of Mark 16:17.
Matthew 7:22-23: Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Contradiction with Matthew 12:39
This verse suggests that seeking signs is indicative of an evil and adulterous generation, contrasting with Mark 16:17’s affirmation of signs for believers.
Matthew 12:39: But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:
Contradiction with Luke 10:20
Here, Jesus instructs that rejoicing should be in salvation, not in the power to perform signs, offering a contrast to the encouragement of signs in Mark 16:17.
Luke 10:20: Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.
Contradiction with John 4:48
Jesus criticizes a reliance on signs for belief, which contrasts with the endorsement of signs in Mark 16:17.
John 4:48: Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.
Paradox #1
Mark 16:17 can be seen as inconsistent because some people argue that the signs mentioned do not always occur among believers, raising questions about their universality and the expectation that all believers will exhibit these signs. Additionally, some early manuscripts of the Gospel of Mark do not include this section, leading to debates about its authenticity.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a conflict because this verse talks about certain signs that will follow believers, like speaking in new tongues and driving out demons. However, not all Christians agree on whether all believers should expect to have these experiences. Some believe these signs were only for the early church, while others think they still apply today. This difference in interpretation can create disagreements among believers.
Paradox #3
Mark 16:17 has been a point of debate due to questions about the authenticity of the ending of the Gospel of Mark. Some of the earliest manuscripts do not include the verses from Mark 16:9-20, leading some scholars to believe that these verses were added later. This creates inconsistencies regarding the textual history and original content of the Gospel, leading to differing beliefs about the authority and interpretation of these passages.
Paradox #4
Mark 16:17 mentions believers handling snakes and drinking poison without harm, which contradicts scientific understanding. Science knows that snakes can be dangerous and poison can harm or kill people. The idea of being completely safe from these without any evidence-backed protective measures conflicts with what we know about biology and toxicology.
Paradox #5
The contradiction or conflict in Mark 16:17 could be the promise of miraculous signs, like casting out demons or speaking in tongues, being a definitive marker of belief. This can create confusion or doubt for those who have strong faith but do not experience such miracles, potentially questioning the validity of their belief or creating unrealistic expectations about what faith should entail.