Contradiction with James 2:1-4
This passage indicates that showing favoritism or giving preferential treatment, such as seating people in different positions, contradicts the idea of having twenty-four elders seated in positions of prominence around the throne in Revelation 4:4.
James 2:1-4: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, [the Lord] of glory, with respect of persons.
Contradiction with Matthew 20:25-28
These verses emphasize that true greatness in heaven is about serving others rather than occupying prestigious positions, which could contradict the image of elders sitting on thrones.
Matthew 20:25-28: But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
Contradiction with Mark 9:34-35
Here Jesus teaches that whoever wants to be first must be last, which contrasts with the idea of the twenty-four elders seated on thrones as presented in Revelation 4:4.
Mark 9:34-35: But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who [should be] the greatest.
Contradiction with Mark 10:42-44
Jesus discusses leadership as serving others and not about authority or positions, contrasting the depiction of elders on thrones in Revelation 4:4.
Mark 10:42-44: But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. [are...: or, think good]
Contradiction with Luke 14:7-11
This passage advises humility and taking the lowest seat rather than seeking places of honor, presenting a contrast to the imagery of elders occupying thrones in Revelation 4:4.
Luke 14:7-11: And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,
Paradox #1
Revelation 4:4 describes twenty-four elders sitting on thrones around God's throne. A potential contradiction might arise regarding the identity and role of these elders. Different interpretations suggest they could represent angels, redeemed humans, or the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. This can lead to differing theological views on who has authority or special status in heaven, potentially conflicting with other biblical teachings about the nature of heavenly beings or the roles of believers in the afterlife.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or inconsistency could be about the identity and symbolism of the 24 elders mentioned. Different scholars and traditions have various interpretations about who these elders represent, such as the 12 tribes of Israel combined with the 12 apostles or another symbolic meaning. This variety of interpretations may lead to conflicting views among different Christian denominations and scholars.