New Testament
Romans 10:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah to illustrate God's surprising grace.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Then Isaiah is very bold and says, "I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me."
But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah to illustrate God's surprising grace. Isaiah boldly declares that God revealed Himself to people who were not actively seeking Him. This highlights God's initiative in reaching out to humanity, showing that His love and salvation are available even to those who are unaware of their need for Him. The verse emphasizes that God's call is not limited to those who are religious or who have been searching for Him; rather, He seeks out those who may feel distant or indifferent. This reflects the broader theme of God's inclusivity and the universal offer of salvation, which is a central message in the New Testament. It challenges the notion that only the righteous or the seekers can find God, reminding us that His grace can reach anyone, regardless of their past or current state of seeking Him.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 10:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God is actively seeking us, even when we are unaware of our need for Him. It reminds us to be open to His presence in our lives and to share this message of hope with others who may feel distant from God.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 10:20 mean?
Romans 10:20 means that God reveals Himself to people who are not actively seeking Him, showing His grace and initiative in reaching out to humanity.
What is the significance of Isaiah's quote in Romans 10:20?
Isaiah's quote in Romans 10:20 highlights God's inclusivity, emphasizing that His love and salvation are available to everyone, even those who feel distant from Him.
How does Romans 10:20 relate to God's grace?
Romans 10:20 illustrates God's grace by demonstrating that He seeks out individuals who do not seek Him, reflecting His desire to connect with all people.
What themes are present in Romans 10:20?
Key themes in Romans 10:20 include God's grace, inclusivity, divine revelation, and the universal offer of salvation.

The Book of Romans
Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.
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