Contradiction with Matthew 10:14
This verse talks about leaving those who do not welcome you, contradicting the welcoming of children as Jesus in Mark 9:37.
Matthew 10:14: And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:26
In this verse, Jesus initially refuses to help the Canaanite woman, contradicting the inclusiveness ethos of welcoming children in Mark 9:37.
Matthew 15:26: But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast [it] to dogs.
Contradiction with John 7:53-8:11
No explicit welcome or acceptance is shown towards the woman taken in adultery until later, not aligning with the immediate acceptance in Mark 9:37.
John 7:53-8:11: And every man went unto his own house.
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 3:6
Advises to withdraw from those who walk disorderly, contrary to the open acceptance in Mark 9:37 without initial judgment.
2 Thessalonians 3:6: Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.
Contradiction with 2 John 1:10
Instructs not to receive anyone who does not bring certain teachings, contrasting with the unconditional welcome in Mark 9:37.
2 John 1:10: If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed:
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in Mark 9:37 could be seen when compared to verses emphasizing the exclusive divinity and authority of God. In Mark 9:37, the act of receiving a child in Jesus' name and equating it with receiving Jesus himself, and ultimately God, might be seen as inconsistent with doctrines that focus on the hierarchy of divine beings and the direct worship of God alone. This could raise questions about the nature of representation and the role humans have in embodying divine presence. However, many theologians interpret this verse metaphorically, emphasizing humility and service rather than literal divine equivalence, therefore resolving potential contradictions through symbolic understanding. If this seems too complex or unrelated, it's often reconciled as teaching a broader theological principle rather than presenting a direct conflict.
Paradox #2
Mark 9:37 speaks about welcoming and accepting children as a way to welcome and accept Jesus and God. A possible contradiction could arise when considering the treatment of children in other parts of the Bible, where there are instances that depict harsh actions or punishments involving children. This could create a tension between the notion of welcoming children and some biblical narratives that seem less compassionate toward them.