Matthew 14:31 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Matthew, Jesus was helping his friend Peter who was scared while walking on water. Jesus reminded Peter to trust him and not be afraid.

Contradiction with James 1:6

This verse suggests that one should ask in faith without doubting, and those who doubt are like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind, contrasting with Matthew 14:31 where Peter doubts and is rebuked for having little faith.

James 1:6: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Contradiction with Mark 9:24

This verse shows a man asking for help in overcoming his unbelief, presenting doubt as a human struggle deserving of compassion, contrary to Matthew 14:31 where Peter is immediately chastised for doubt.

Mark 9:24: And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

Contradiction with Matthew 17:20

Here, Jesus says that with faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible, implying that even the smallest faith should be enough, which contradicts the rebuke for "little faith" in Matthew 14:31.

Matthew 17:20: And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

Contradiction with Romans 14:1

Paul advises acceptance of those who are weak in faith without quarreling, suggesting a more tolerant approach to weak faith than the immediate reproach seen in Matthew 14:31.

Romans 14:1: Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, [but] not to doubtful disputations. [not...: or, not to judge his doubtful thoughts]

Contradiction with Matthew 8:26

Despite a similar situation where he rebukes the disciples for their lack of faith during a storm, Jesus then calms the storm, contrasting with the direct physical saving of Peter in Matthew 14:31.

Matthew 8:26: And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

Contradiction with Hebrews 11:1

This verse describes faith as the assurance of things hoped for, which contrasts with Peter’s failure to maintain faith when walking on water in Matthew 14:31.