Contradiction with Luke 6:29
Matthew 21:19 shows Jesus cursing the fig tree, whereas Luke 6:29 teaches to "turn the other cheek," emphasizing forgiveness and patience rather than cursing or harm.
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 Matthew 5:44
In Matthew 21:19, Jesus curses the fig tree, which contrasts with Matthew 5:44, where Jesus instructs to "love your enemies" and bless rather than curse.
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 James 3:10
Matthew 21:19 involves cursing, conflicting with James 3:10, which advocates that blessings and curses should not come from the same mouth.
James 3:10: Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:18
The decisive act of cursing the fig tree in Matthew 21:19 contradicts Proverbs 12:18, which advises using words to heal rather than harm.
Proverbs 12:18: There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise [is] health.
Contradiction with Romans 12:14
Matthew 21:19's curse opposes the teaching in Romans 12:14, which advocates blessing those who persecute you, rather than cursing.
Romans 12:14: Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Contradiction with Mark 11:25
Matthew 21:19 shows Jesus acting in judgment toward the fig tree, which conflicts with Mark 11:25, teaching forgiveness if anyone has a grudge.
Mark 11:25: And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
The decisive nature of cursing the fig tree in Matthew 21:19 can be seen as contrary to Proverbs 15:1, which suggests a gentle answer turns away wrath.
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:29
In Matthew 21:19, Jesus curses the fig tree; this contradicts Ephesians 4:29’s teaching to let no corrupt communication come out, suggesting only what is edifying.
Ephesians 4:29: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. [to...: or, to edify profitably]
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction in Matthew 21:19 is the action of Jesus cursing the fig tree for not bearing fruit when it was not the season for figs. Some may see this as inconsistent with the idea of Jesus being just and compassionate, as the tree was not at fault for not having fruit at that time. This may raise questions about the fairness and intent behind the miracle.
Paradox #2
Some people point out a contradiction related to this verse when comparing it with a similar account in the Gospel of Mark. In Matthew, the fig tree withers immediately after Jesus curses it, while in Mark, the disciples notice the withering the next day. This difference in the timeline of events can be seen as a contradiction between the two accounts.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in that verse could be related to the fact that plants, such as fig trees, typically do not wither and die instantly. In natural processes, plant decay or death takes time and is influenced by various environmental factors, which does not align with an immediate withering as described.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could be that it appears unjust or surprising for Jesus to curse the fig tree for not bearing fruit when it was not the season for figs. This action might seem harsh or unfair given the circumstances.