Contradiction with Matthew 28:20
Jesus promises to be with His followers always, which contradicts the idea of the disciples being scattered.
Matthew 28:20: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:5
God promises not to leave or forsake His followers, conflicting with the notion of the disciples being scattered.
Hebrews 13:5: [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Contradiction with John 16:32
Jesus acknowledges the disciples will leave Him alone, which directly supports Matthew 26:31 instead of contradicting it.
John 16:32: Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. [his own: or, his own home]
Contradiction with Mark 16:7
The angel tells the women to inform the disciples that Jesus goes before them into Galilee, implying they will regroup, which contrasts with the idea of permanent scattering.
Mark 16:7: But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
Contradiction with John 10:28
Jesus claims that no one can snatch His true followers from Him, contradicting the scattering of the disciples.
John 10:28: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.
Paradox #1
Matthew 26:31 might seem to contradict the concept of unwavering faith because Jesus predicts that all his disciples will fall away. This could appear inconsistent with the idea that true believers remain steadfast in their faith. However, this situation highlights human weakness and the need for forgiveness and redemption.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Matthew 26:31 could be seen in the idea of prophecy and free will. If Jesus predicts that his disciples will abandon him, it raises questions about whether they have the freedom to act differently. This can create tension between the idea that humans have the ability to choose their actions and the notion that certain events are predetermined.