Contradiction with Matthew 28:19-20
These verses command followers to make disciples of all nations and teach them, implying there will be credible leaders/teachers, whereas Matthew 24:23 warns against believing in others claiming Christ's presence.
Matthew 28:19-20: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [teach...: or, make disciples, or, Christians of all nations]
Contradiction with John 1:41
This verse records Andrew stating that they have found the Messiah, which contradicts Matthew 24:23's warning against declarations of finding Christ.
John 1:41: He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. [the Christ: or, the Anointed]
Contradiction with Acts 11:26
Here, believers first being called Christians indicates the acceptance of identifiable leaders in Christ, contrary to Matthew 24:23's caution against claims of knowing Christ’s whereabouts or identity.
Acts 11:26: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. [with...: or, in the church]
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:4
This verse mentions following another Jesus or different gospel might happen, which contrasts with Matthew 24:23's clear statement to not believe in claims of finding Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:4: For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him]. [with him: or, with me]
Contradiction with 1 John 3:24
Assurance of Christ abiding in us through His Spirit is given, differing from the external caution in Matthew 24:23 to not believe outside declarations.
1 John 3:24: And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in Matthew 24:23 might arise from interpreting the verse as a caution against believing in false claims of the Messiah's return. The conflict could be in balancing the trust in spiritual authority with the need for personal discernment. Believers are encouraged to have faith, yet they must also question and verify religious claims to avoid deception. This can create tension between faith and skepticism.