Contradiction with John 14:6
Jesus openly declares His authority and identity as "the way, the truth, and the life," contrasting with His refusal to directly state His authority in Matthew 21:24.
John 14:6: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Contradiction with John 18:37
Jesus explicitly affirms His kingship before Pilate, conflicting with the indirect approach He uses in responding to the question of authority in Matthew 21:24.
John 18:37: Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Contradiction with Matthew 26:63-64
When confronted by the high priest, Jesus acknowledges being the Christ, the Son of God, in contrast to withholding a direct answer in Matthew 21:24.
Matthew 26:63-64: Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Contradiction with Mark 14:61-62
Jesus plainly confirms His identity as the Messiah before the high priest, contradicting His evasive response in Matthew 21:24.
Mark 14:61-62: But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in the referenced verse could be seen as the balance between honesty and strategic silence. Jesus responds to a question with another question, which some might view as avoiding direct answers. This could be seen as conflicting with the value of straightforward honesty. However, others might interpret it as wisdom in handling challenging situations. This presents a tension between being truthful and being cautious with one's words.