Contradictions and Paradoxes in Matthew 20:22

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Matthew 20:22 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Matthew 20:22. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Matthew, Jesus is telling his friends that they don't really understand what they're asking for when they say they want to be like him. He is asking if they can handle the hard things he will go through, and they say they can.

Matthew 20:22: But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:39

Jesus shows willingness to submit to the Father's will rather than seeking His own, contrasting the disciples' lack of understanding in Matthew 20:22.

Matthew 26:39: And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?

Contradiction with Matthew 26:42

Again, Jesus demonstrates submission to God's will, highlighting the disciples' lack of comprehension in Matthew 20:22 regarding the cup they wish to drink.

Matthew 26:42: And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.

Contradiction with Mark 10:38

Jesus repeats the same message as in Matthew 20:22 to clarify the misunderstanding of the disciples regarding their preparedness.

Mark 10:38: But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

Contradiction with Luke 22:42

Jesus' prayer for the Father’s will to be done contrasts with the disciples’ lack of knowledge about what it truly means to follow Him, as seen in Matthew 20:22.

Luke 22:42: Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. [willing, remove: Gr. willing to remove]

Contradiction with John 18:11

Jesus’ acceptance of the cup given by the Father opposes the disciples' earlier assumption of readiness in Matthew 20:22.

John 18:11: Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

Paradox #1

Matthew 20:22 could be seen as presenting a theological challenge because it involves Jesus talking to his disciples about drinking from a cup, which symbolizes suffering or sacrifice. The conflict arises in understanding how the concept of sharing in Jesus' suffering aligns with the idea of divine love and protection. This can lead to questions about why a loving God would require suffering and how this fits with the message of salvation.

Paradox #2

Matthew 20:22 could have a contradiction or conflict in the sense that it touches on themes of ambition and understanding one's limits. The disciples express a desire for honor and prominence, yet Jesus highlights their lack of awareness regarding the sacrifice and suffering involved. This presents a conflict between the pursuit of status and the humility required to truly follow Jesus.

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