Contradictions and Paradoxes in Mark 9:35

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Mark 9:35 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Mark 9:35. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Mark, Jesus told his friends that if someone wants to be the most important, they should be like a helper to everyone and put others first. This means being kind and caring to others is more important than being the boss.

Mark 9:35: And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, [the same] shall be last of all, and servant of all.

Contradiction with Matthew 20:16

This verse states, "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen." It suggests a role reversal where the first becomes last, which aligns instead of directly contradicting the principle found in Mark 9:35.

Matthew 20:16: So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

Contradiction with Luke 14:11

This verse says, "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." It also emphasizes the value of humility, similar to Mark 9:35, but highlights the idea of self-exaltation leading to being humbled.

Luke 14:11: For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:11

The verse reads, "I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all." This suggests an element of randomness rather than a straightforward outcome influenced by humility or servitude.

Ecclesiastes 9:11: I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

Contradiction with Proverbs 22:29

It states, "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men." This implies that diligence leads to recognition and elevation, not necessarily through servitude or humility, which could be seen as a contradiction to Mark 9:35.

Proverbs 22:29: Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean [men]. [mean...: Heb. obscure men]

Contradiction with Matthew 23:12

"And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." Like Luke 14:11, this verse underscores the principle of humility being rewarded, reinforcing rather than contradicting Mark 9:35.

Matthew 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency in Mark 9:35 might be seen in how societal norms value status and hierarchy. This verse flips that idea by saying that to be first, one must be last and serve others. This can conflict with common beliefs about success and leadership, which often emphasize power and being ahead of others.

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