Contradiction with Matthew 16:25
This verse appears to reiterate rather than contradict Matthew 10:39, asserting that losing life for Christ's sake will result in finding it.
Matthew 16:25: For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
Contradiction with Mark 8:35
Similar to Matthew 10:39, it states that whoever loses their life for Christ’s sake and the gospel’s will save it.
Mark 8:35: For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
Contradiction with Luke 17:33
Reflects the same message as Matthew 10:39, reinforcing rather than contradicting the idea that losing life will lead to preserving it.
Luke 17:33: Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in the idea that losing one's life can actually mean finding it. It seems opposite to our normal understanding, where losing usually implies missing out or failing. This verse challenges the usual way we think about success and identity.
Paradox #2
Matthew 10:39 can seem contradictory because it suggests that to truly find one's life and purpose, one must first be willing to lose it. This can be confusing because it goes against the natural instinct to preserve one's life or seek personal gain. The challenge is understanding how losing something important can actually lead to gaining something greater spiritually. Some people see this as a conflict between self-interest and self-sacrifice.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict might arise from the idea that losing one's life to find it can seem counterintuitive. People often see self-preservation as natural, so the notion of giving up one's life for a higher purpose might conflict with the instinct to protect oneself. Additionally, it may challenge personal desires and worldly goals, leading to a clash between spiritual teachings and everyday values.