Romans 1:18-25 (WEB)
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known of God is revealed in them, for God revealed it to them. For the invisible things of him since the creation of the world are clearly seen, being perceived through the things that are made, even his everlasting power and divinity; that they may be without excuse. Because, knowing God, they didn't glorify him as God, neither gave thanks, but became vain in their reasoning, and their senseless heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and traded the glory of the incorruptible God for the likeness of an image of corruptible man, and of birds, and four-footed animals, and creeping things. Therefore God also gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to uncleanness, that their bodies should be dishonored among themselves; who exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
🔑 Key Points
1. No one is without knowledge of God
Creation itself reveals His eternal power and divine nature — ignorance is no excuse for unbelief. The problem is not lack of evidence, but suppression of the truth.
2. God's wrath is revealed against unrighteousness
This is not a blind, uncontrolled rage but the holy and necessary opposition of a righteous God to everything that defies His character and law.
3. Idolatry is the root of all sin
When people refuse to honor God, they don't become neutral — they trade the glory of the Creator for images of created things. Worship is inescapable; we either worship God or something else.
4. God's judgment is giving people over
The terrifying phrase 'God gave them up' shows that divine judgment can look like God stepping back and letting sin run its destructive course.
💬 Discussion Questions
Sproul says the issue isn't evidence but suppression. In what ways do you see people today suppressing the knowledge of God that is plainly available in creation?
How does understanding God's wrath as His righteous opposition to evil — rather than uncontrolled anger — change the way you read this passage?
The same God whose wrath is revealed against sin has provided a way of rescue in Christ — His justice and mercy meet at the cross.