Contradictions in the bible new testament

A sensitive topic! While the Bible is considered the inspired word of God by many Christians, it is not immune to criticisms and contradictions. Here are some examples of contradictions in the New Testament:

1. The Genealogy of Jesus

Matthew 1:16 and Luke 3:23-31 provide different genealogies for Jesus. Matthew's genealogy is from Abraham to Jesus, while Luke's is from Adam to Jesus.

2. The Number of Angels at the Tomb

Matthew 28:2-3 and Mark 16:5 describe two angels at the tomb, while Luke 24:4-5 mentions one angel.

3. The Timing of Jesus' Baptism

Matthew 3:13-17 and John 1:32-34 describe Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, but the timing is unclear. Matthew says Jesus was baptized after John's preaching, while John says Jesus was baptized before John's preaching.

4. The Purpose of Jesus' Baptism

Matthew 3:13-15 and John 1:32-34 provide different purposes for Jesus' baptism. Matthew says Jesus was baptized to fulfill all righteousness, while John says Jesus was baptized to show that Jesus was the Son of God.

5. The Number of People at the Last Supper

Matthew 26:20, Mark 14:17, and Luke 22:14-15 describe the Last Supper, but the number of people present varies. Matthew says there were 12 apostles, Mark says there were 13 (including Judas), and Luke says there were 13 (including Judas and Jesus).

6. The Timing of Jesus' Resurrection

Matthew 28:1-8, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, and John 20:1-10 describe Jesus' resurrection, but the timing is unclear. Matthew and Mark say the women visited the tomb early in the morning, while Luke says they visited at dawn. John says Jesus was resurrected on the third day, while the other Gospels don't specify.

7. The Purpose of Jesus' Resurrection

Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-18, Luke 24:46-47, and John 20:21-23 describe Jesus' resurrection, but the purpose is unclear. Matthew and Mark say Jesus gave his disciples authority to baptize, while Luke and John say Jesus gave his disciples the power to forgive sins.

8. The Behavior of Jesus' Disciples

Matthew 26:31-35, Mark 14:27-31, and Luke 22:31-34 describe Jesus' prediction that his disciples would all abandon him, but only Judas betrayed him.

9. The Timing of Jesus' Ascension

Acts 1:9-11 and Luke 24:50-53 describe Jesus' ascension, but the timing is unclear. Acts says Jesus was taken up to heaven 40 days after his resurrection, while Luke says Jesus was taken up to heaven after his resurrection.

10. The Purpose of Jesus' Ascension

Acts 1:9-11 and Luke 24:50-53 describe Jesus' ascension, but the purpose is unclear. Acts says Jesus was taken up to heaven to sit at God's right hand, while Luke says Jesus was taken up to heaven to fulfill the promise to the patriarchs.

It's important to note that these contradictions are not necessarily contradictions in the classical sense, but rather differences in emphasis, perspective, or style. Many scholars believe that these differences can be resolved through careful study and consideration of the historical and cultural contexts in which the Gospels were written.

Additionally, many Christians believe that the Bible is inspired by God and that its contradictions are not necessarily errors, but rather opportunities for deeper understanding and spiritual growth.