Contradiction with Matthew 7:15
Warns against false prophets who come in sheep's clothing, highlighting deception akin to a beast with lamb-like appearance but a voice like a dragon.
Matthew 7:15: Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Contradiction with 1 John 4:1
Encourages testing the spirits to see whether they are from God, which contradicts with the deceptive nature of the beast in Revelation 13:11.
1 John 4:1: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:14
States that Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light, contrasting the deceptive appearance vs true nature, similar to the beast's lamb-like appearance.
2 Corinthians 11:14: And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
Contradiction with Matthew 24:24
Warns that false prophets and false Christs will show great signs and wonders, contradicting the intended deception of appearance in Revelation 13:11.
Matthew 24:24: For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 3:5
Discusses having a form of godliness but denying its power, which contrasts with the beast's deceptive guise.
2 Timothy 3:5: Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Paradox #1
Some people may see a contradiction in how the figure in Revelation 13:11 appears gentle like a lamb but speaks like a dragon, which some might find inconsistent with the idea that appearances should match inner truth or character. This contrasts the notion that one’s outward demeanor should reflect an inward spiritual reality.
Paradox #2
Revelation 13:11 might raise questions about consistency when considering how different parts of the Bible describe the nature and role of beasts or false prophets. In some interpretations, it could be seen as contradictory to other biblical messages about peace and righteousness, as it presents a figure with a deceitful appearance. This could cause confusion about recognizing true versus false teachings or figures in a spiritual context.
Paradox #3
Revelation 13:11 may involve a contradiction or conflict because it describes a figure that appears innocent or good ("like a lamb") but speaks deceitfully ("like a dragon"). This can create an inconsistency between appearance and intention, highlighting the difficulty of discerning truth from deception. This passage may challenge the idea that outward appearances always reflect inner morality, raising questions about trust and genuine goodness.