Contradiction with Proverbs 8:17
This verse states that God loves those who love Him and those who seek Him will find Him, while Isaiah 65:2 suggests God is reaching out to rebellious people who are not seeking Him.
Proverbs 8:17: I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:7
In this verse, it is stated that those who seek will find, implying active pursuit, whereas Isaiah 65:2 portrays God reaching out to those who are not pursuing Him.
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 James 4:8
This verse says that if people draw near to God, He will draw near to them, which is a reciprocal seeking, contrary to Isaiah 65:2 where God reaches out to an unseeking, rebellious people.
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.
Contradiction with Luke 11:9
Here, seeking and finding involve human action, contrasting with Isaiah 65:2 where God is proactive without reciprocation from the people.
Luke 11:9: And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict might arise if the idea of God continually reaching out to rebellious people seems inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where God appears to have a more immediate or severe response to disobedience. Some might wonder how these different portrayals of God's patience and judgment align within the overall message.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency might be seen in the way God expresses openness and calls out to people, yet many people feel they still experience punishment or distance due to disobedience or misunderstanding. This could create tension between the idea of a welcoming, forgiving deity and the consequences often depicted for straying from the path.