Contradiction with Matthew 4:4
This verse emphasizes living by every word from God, rather than by bread alone, which contrasts with the focus on providing physical food in Mark 6:37.
Matthew 4:4: But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Contradiction with Luke 4:4
Similar to Matthew 4:4, it underscores reliance on spiritual nourishment over physical food, conflicting with the direct command to give food in Mark 6:37.
Luke 4:4: And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Contradiction with John 6:27
This verse advises seeking eternal life’s sustenance rather than temporary food, contrasting with the literal provision of food in Mark 6:37.
John 6:27: Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. [Labour not: or, Work not]
Contradiction with Matthew 6:31-32
These verses highlight trusting God for provisions, whereas Mark 6:37 focuses on the disciples taking immediate action to feed others.
Matthew 6:31-32: Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Contradiction with Matthew 14:16
In this verse, Jesus tells the disciples to feed the people without initially revealing the miraculous means, similar to Mark 6:37, but it emphasizes their initial disbelief, contradicting the straightforward command.
Matthew 14:16: But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.
Contradiction with Luke 9:13
Reiterates a similar scenario to Mark 6:37, yet highlights the disciples’ practical concerns more, rather than obedience to the command to feed the multitude.
Luke 9:13: But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people.
Contradiction with John 4:32
Jesus speaks of having food unknown to the disciples, shifting the focus from physical provision, unlike the directive to feed in Mark 6:37.
John 4:32: But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Mark 6:37 could relate to the expectation of taking responsibility in a challenging situation with limited resources, which might seem unrealistic or overwhelming. The disciples express doubt about their ability to feed a large crowd, highlighting a tension between faith, practicality, and the resources available. This could create a conflict between trusting in divine provision and facing the realities of limited material goods.