Contradiction with James 1:5
Matthew 21:44 speaks of destruction for those who reject Jesus, while James 1:5 offers wisdom generously to all without punishment.
James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Contradiction with John 3:17
Matthew 21:44 mentions judgment and being broken, whereas John 3:17 says Jesus came not to condemn but to save the world.
John 3:17: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Contradiction with Luke 19:10
Matthew 21:44 discusses being crushed, while Luke 19:10 emphasizes that Jesus came to seek and save the lost, not to harm.
Luke 19:10: For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise from the interpretation of judgment and destruction. Some may see a conflict between the themes of grace and forgiveness found in other parts of the Bible, where emphasis is on mercy and redemption, versus this verse, which speaks about falling and being crushed. This could seem inconsistent with the idea of a loving and forgiving God. However, it is often understood in context as illustrating the consequences of rejecting Jesus, emphasizing accountability and the seriousness of that choice.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in the verse could be seen in the idea of destruction versus forgiveness. Some people might think it's contradictory for a message of love and forgiveness to mention something being "broken" or "crushed." This can seem at odds with the overall message of compassion found in other parts of the Bible.