Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, which contrasts with Mark 9:42’s severe warning against causing others to sin.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Luke 6:29
This passage encourages turning the other cheek when wronged, which can seem contradictory to the grave consequence mentioned in Mark 9:42 for causing offense.
Luke 6:29: And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also.
Contradiction with John 3:17
States that God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, differing from the stern warning of punishment in Mark 9:42.
John 3:17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Contradiction with Romans 12:14
Advises blessing those who persecute you, contrasting with Mark 9:42's focus on the repercussions of causing harm.
Romans 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:32
Encourages kindness and forgiveness, contrasting with the harsh tone of judgment in Mark 9:42 for causing others to stumble.
Ephesians 4:32: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Contradiction with James 2:13
Emphasizes mercy triumphing over judgment, contrary to Mark 9:42’s implication of severe judgment.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
Mark 9:42 emphasizes severe consequences for causing harm or leading believers astray, especially those with childlike faith. A potential theological conflict arises when considering the concept of forgiveness and redemption in Christianity, which generally advocates for grace and forgiveness even for those who sin. The contradiction is between the harsh punishment suggested and the broader message of forgiveness and possible redemption available to all through repentance.
Paradox #2
One potential issue with Mark 9:42 could be its strong warning about causing harm to others, especially those who are vulnerable or new in faith. This might seem to contradict messages of forgiveness and redemption found elsewhere in the Bible. While this verse emphasizes severe consequences, other parts of the Bible focus on forgiveness and the opportunity for repentance, which might appear inconsistent to some readers.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in Mark 9:42 could stem from the severity of the punishment described, which involves causing harm as a response to leading others astray. This might seem inconsistent with the messages of forgiveness and compassion elsewhere in the Bible. It raises questions about the balance between justice and mercy.