top of page
Search

Outreach FAQs: the Top Contradictions in the Bible

  • Writer: Nigel Williams
    Nigel Williams
  • Sep 13
  • 3 min read
contradictions in the Bible

Understanding the so-called Top Contradictions in the Bible

Critics of the Bible often point to alleged contradictions as evidence that Scripture is unreliable. However, a closer examination of these supposed contradictions reveals that they often arise from misunderstandings, context omission, or misinterpretation. Let us explore the "Top 10 contradictions in the Bible" and demonstrate how careful study reconciles them.

1. Did Judas Die by Hanging or Falling?

  • The Claim: Matthew 27:5 says Judas hanged himself, while Acts 1:18 describes him falling and his body bursting.

  • Explanation: Both accounts describe the same event from different perspectives. Judas hanged himself, and over time, his body fell and burst open.


2. How Many Animals Did Noah Take on the Ark?

  • The Claim: Genesis 6:19-20 mentions two of each kind, but Genesis 7:2-3 specifies seven pairs of clean animals.

  • Explanation: Both statements are correct. Noah took two of every kind of unclean animal and seven pairs of clean animals. This distinction reflects the use of clean animals for sacrifices.


3. Did God Tempt Abraham?

  • The Claim: Genesis 22:1 says God tempted Abraham, but James 1:13 states God does not tempt anyone.

  • Explanation: The word “tempt” in Genesis 22:1 (KJV) is better understood as “tested” or “proved.” God tested Abraham’s faith, not to lead him into sin but to strengthen his trust.


4. Who Was Joseph’s Father?

  • The Claim: Matthew 1:16 lists Jacob as Joseph’s father, but Luke 3:23 names Heli.

  • Explanation: Matthew traces Joseph’s lineage through Jacob (his biological father), while Luke traces his legal lineage through Heli (likely Joseph’s father-in-law). Both genealogies affirm Jesus’ rightful claim to the throne of David.


5. Did Jesus Carry His Cross Alone?

  • The Claim: John 19:17 says Jesus bore His cross, but Matthew 27:32 mentions Simon of Cyrene carrying it.

  • Explanation: Jesus initially carried the cross, but Simon was compelled to help when Jesus grew weak. Both accounts highlight different moments of the same event.

6. When Did the Women Visit the Tomb?

  • The Claim: Matthew 28:1 mentions dawn, while Mark 16:2 refers to early morning.

  • Explanation: Both accounts describe the same timeframe using different expressions. “Dawn” and “early morning” overlap and indicate the women arrived shortly after sunrise.

7. Did God Repent?

  • The Claim: Genesis 6:6 says God repented, but Numbers 23:19 states God does not repent.

  • Explanation: In Genesis, “repent” means God grieved over humanity’s sin. Numbers clarifies that God does not change His mind or character as humans do. The difference lies in the context and meaning of the word “repent.”

8. Can We See God?

  • The Claim: Exodus 33:20 says no one can see God and live, but Genesis 32:30 describes Jacob seeing God face to face.

  • Explanation: Jacob’s encounter was with possibly a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ (who appeared - not showing His full glory, though some of His glory was seen at the Mount of transfiguration). The statement in Exodus refers to seeing God in His full glory, which no human can endure.

9. How Did Judas Buy a Field?

  • The Claim: Acts 1:18 says Judas bought a field, but Matthew 27:7 says the priests purchased it.

  • Explanation: The priests used the money Judas returned to buy the field. Since the money was technically Judas’s, it is attributed to him.

In Summary

The “Top contradictions in the Bible” are not contradictions when viewed with proper context and understanding. The Bible is consistent and reliable, as it is inspired by God:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16, KJV)

Rather than undermining faith, these examples highlight the importance of diligent study. As we examine Scripture, we discover its harmony and truth, confirming its divine origin.




Did you know we offer a wide selection of free Christian scripture leaflets? Explore our extensive collection by clicking here: Free Gospel Tracts.



Comments

bottom of page