Contradiction with Matthew 7:7
While Isaiah 65:1 suggests God reveals Himself to those who did not seek Him, Matthew 7:7 implies that seeking is necessary to find God.
Matthew 7:7: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:13
Isaiah 65:1 states God is found by those who did not seek Him, but Jeremiah 29:13 suggests that seeking God wholeheartedly is necessary to find Him.
Jeremiah 29:13: And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Contradiction with Proverbs 8:17
In Isaiah 65:1 God is found without being sought, whereas Proverbs 8:17 supports the idea that those who love and seek God will find Him.
Proverbs 8:17: I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 16:11
Isaiah 65:1 allows for God's revelation to those not seeking Him, but this verse advises the importance of seeking God continually.
1 Chronicles 16:11: Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.
Contradiction with James 4:8
Isaiah 65:1 presents God reaching out before being sought, while James 4:8 emphasizes the need for humans to draw near to God first.
James 4:8: Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.
Paradox #1
Isaiah 65:1 could be seen as having a contradiction with the notion that God only reveals Himself to those who seek Him. In this verse, God is reaching out to those who were not initially looking for Him, suggesting that His grace and initiative can extend beyond human effort or expectation. This might seem inconsistent with the idea that people must first seek God to find Him.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in this context could stem from the idea that God is actively reaching out to people who may not have been actively seeking Him, while other parts of religious teachings emphasize the importance of individuals seeking and obeying God to find favor or receive guidance. This might seem conflicting because it suggests that God's initiative can precede human action or intention, raising questions about the balance between divine intervention and human responsibility.