Contradiction with Matthew 10:39
This verse suggests that finding one's life will result in losing it, which contrasts with the call to lose one's life to follow Christ in Mark 8:34.
Matthew 10:39: He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Contradiction with Luke 14:26
This verse emphasizes hating one's life and family for Christ, which seems more extreme compared to the call to self-denial in Mark 8:34.
Luke 14:26: If any [man] come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:21
This verse calls for selling possessions and giving to the poor to achieve perfection, which adds a different dimension to the self-denial in Mark 8:34.
Matthew 19:21: Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come [and] follow me.
Contradiction with John 12:25
This verse implies loving one's life results in losing it, which contrasts with the idea of self-denial without the additional context of loving or hating life in Mark 8:34.
John 12:25: He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
Paradox #1
Mark 8:34 could be seen as a potential contradiction or inconsistency when considered alongside other scriptural teachings about self-preservation and life's blessings. For example, if this verse is seen as encouraging self-denial and taking up a personal burden, it might conflict with verses that emphasize enjoying life or caring for oneself as a temple of the Holy Spirit. The tension arises from balancing the call to sacrifice and serve with the call to love and care for oneself.
Paradox #2
Mark 8:34 includes the idea of self-denial and taking up one's cross to follow Jesus. A possible contradiction could arise when this call for self-denial is interpreted in extreme ways, potentially leading individuals to neglect their own well-being or those they are responsible for. This could conflict with other values such as self-care, personal responsibility, and care for others.