A frequent misinterpretation views this as God arbitrarily hiding from sincere seekers or indiscriminately saving all without response, ignoring the context of Israel's rebellion provoking God's outreach to Gentiles who heed His call; it is not universalism guaranteeing salvation to non-seekers nor a dismissal of human responsibility, but a prophetic contrast emphasizing judgment on unfaithful Israel and mercy to believing outsiders, often divorced from its fulfillment in the New Testament gospel's spread.
Isaiah 65:1
King James Version (1769)
1 I am sought of them that asked not for me; I am found of them that sought me not: I said, Behold me, behold me, unto a nation that was not called by my name.
God expresses His sovereign initiative in revealing Himself to those who did not seek Him, specifically Gentiles or nations outside Israel, underscoring divine grace that extends salvation unexpectedly to outsiders while Israel, despite their pursuit, remains distant due to disobedience; this verse prophesies the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan, as echoed in Romans 10:20, highlighting God's eagerness to be found by responsive hearts.