Contradiction with Acts 3:14
This verse suggests that the people chose to disown Jesus, calling Him "the Holy One and the Just," in favor of a murderer, contradicting Matthew 27:20, where the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude.
Acts 3:14: But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;
Contradiction with Luke 23:18-19
In this verse, the crowd calls for the release of Barabbas, who was in prison for insurrection and murder, contradicting the notion that they were solely persuaded by the chief priests and elders.
Luke 23:18-19: And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this [man], and release unto us Barabbas:
Contradiction with Mark 15:11
This verse implies the chief priests moved the people to ask for Barabbas’ release, which contrasts with the idea that the multitude needed persuasion.
Mark 15:11: But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.
Contradiction with John 18:40
The crowd's choice of Barabbas, described as a robber, is highlighted, suggesting their willingness to choose him without being persuaded by the chief priests and elders.
John 18:40: Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.
Contradiction with Matthew 27:23
Pilate’s questioning of the crowd’s decision to crucify Jesus indicates that the crowd was actively involved in the choice, not solely influenced by the chief priests and elders as initially implied in Matthew 27:20.
Matthew 27:23: And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
Contradiction with John 19:12-15
These verses portray Pilate's hesitation and willingness to release Jesus, indicating an independent sentiment in the crowd's demands.
John 19:12-15: And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.
Contradiction with Mark 15:9-11
Pilate instinctively asks if they want Jesus released (“King of the Jews”), which contradicts Matthew 27:20, suggesting a divided opinion rather than unanimous persuasion.
Mark 15:9-11: But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?
Paradox #1
The verse involves the influence of religious leaders over the crowd to seek the release of a criminal instead of Jesus. A moral conflict might be seen in how people can be persuaded to make unjust decisions under the influence of authority figures, raising questions about moral responsibility and the pressures of societal or authoritative sway.