Contradiction with Proverbs 29:9
A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards. Mark 6:20 states that Herod heard John gladly, but this verse suggests discretion, unlike Herod's actions.
Proverbs 29:9: [If] a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, [there is] no rest.
Contradiction with Matthew 14:5
Herod wanted to put John the Baptist to death, contrary to Mark 6:20 which states that he feared and protected John knowing he was a just man.
Matthew 14:5: And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.
Contradiction with John 3:20
This verse states that everyone that doeth evil hateth the light and does not come to the light, whereas Mark 6:20 describes Herod as gladly hearing John, a bringer of light.
John 3:20: For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. [reproved: or, discovered]
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 4:3
Suggests that people will not endure sound doctrine, while Mark 6:20 indicates Herod willingly listened to John, who preached repentance.
2 Timothy 4:3: For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
Contradiction with Luke 23:11
Herod, who is described as treating Jesus with contempt in this verse, contrasts with the respectful and protective attitude he showed towards John in Mark 6:20.
Luke 23:11: And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked [him], and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.
Paradox #1
Mark 6:20 suggests that Herod respected and protected John the Baptist, listening to him despite being puzzled by his teachings. However, this seems inconsistent because later, Herod imprisons and eventually beheads John. This raises questions about the sincerity and depth of Herod's respect for John if he ultimately allows his execution.
Paradox #2
Mark 6:20 suggests that Herod Antipas respected John the Baptist and considered him a righteous man. However, this seems contradictory with the later events where Herod orders John's execution. The inconsistency lies in Herod's behavior: respecting and fearing John, yet ultimately having him killed due to personal and political pressures.
Paradox #3
Mark 6:20 reveals a possible contradiction in how Herod respects and protects John the Baptist, finding him righteous and holy, yet eventually agrees to have him killed due to pressure and a promise made to Herodias's daughter. This conflict lies in Herod's internal struggle between doing what he believes is right and succumbing to external influences, highlighting the challenge of integrity versus yielding to wrongful acts.