18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. 26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Commentary
Vs. 18-19 The Apostle Paul having declared the way of salvation, "that just shall live by faith" (Rom 1:16-17), now declares the wrath of God against "...all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them." vs. 18-19
And so here the Apostle Paul makes it clear that a life of faith is not just believing, it is transformative living. Therefore in contrast to that, the Apostle Paul now shows us the wrath of God and just how He is manifesting it against those who do not believe, nor obey the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. And so Paul begins with the inherent revelation of God given to us all that testifies to God's Person and His Character. Yet these people instead of being drawn towards God through it, instead choose to live according to (and or justify) their own godlessness and evil desires, by which themselves then are wilfully hindering and opposing the truth of God. For it is by the ungodly and unrighteousness conduct of mankind that the truth is suppressed (lit. held back or down). And so mankind collectively suffers as the truth of God's is "suppressed" by those who live by and justify their evil and Godless desires and thus forward the ruinous effects of sin in this world, which ultimately affects us all. Thus the wrath of God is justly aroused against them because sin is not only an offense against His person, it is the ruin of us all who are created in His Person's Image.
Now the Apostle Paul's main point here is not about sin per-say, it is about unbelieving mankind's wilful rejection of the inherent revelation of God's Person and His Will for us all, that He has given us all, that is bringing the wrath of God down on all who do so. For God created mankind to bear His Image in the midst of His creation. In essence we are the crowning glory of God's creative genius of all His works, in all His creation. Thus God created us all (not only as spiritual beings wrapped in physical bodies so that we can all interact with all His creation) but with a moral/spiritual conscience and the capacities to live according to it. And so from our earliest years on, we all have a rudimentary sense of what is right and wrong, lying is wrong, stealing is wrong, mistreating others is wrong, etc. we all instinctively know this, and we all instinctively feel this, even as little children. And so we all have an innate sense of God's goodness, justice, love etc., even His wrath against what is evil. Even with indwelling sin corrupting us all, we all have the capacity to understand God, to know what He approves of and what He disapproves of. For it is instinctively ours from our Creator who has placed it right in the center of our free-will. Now the Apostle Paul will touch on this aspect of the inherent revelation of God that we all have a little later in chapter two (Rom 2:14-16). But for now His focus is own mankind's wilful suppression of that inherent revelation, by either hardening ones own heart and conscience towards Him, or externally by ones own wilful unrighteousness and ungodly conduct by which again the truth of God is held back or down. And so God's wrath is justly aroused against us when we do so. Yet from the Tower of Babylon forward mankind has continually sought for themselves ways to cast God aside, and live by their own "rule" and desires. Which as the Apostle Paul will go onto to say has far reaching consequences, both personally and societally. And so though mankind by their ungodly lifestyles and unrighteous conduct may suppress the truth, God still plays a very personal role in our lives, as Paul reveals here, for God is still God (Psalm 46:10).
Vs. 20-25 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
And so the Apostle Paul declares here that creation itself has always, and will always, testify to it's Creator. For through it God's invisible attributes are clearly seen; i.e. His Infinite Being is clearly seen in the galaxies and universes that have no end, same with the stars that cannot be numbered. Likewise creation itself testifies to God's Divine order of all things. Consider if you will the complexity of the molecular and subatomic world that baffles the mind, yet it all works in harmony. But more readily available to us, and easily observable to us, is the orchestration of creation itself: day and night, seasons and years, the moving of waves on the seas, the flowing of rivers into them, the growing of plants and trees, the births, migration, and movements of the animal kingdom, even the phases of human life, from conception to maturity, all testify to God's Divine arrangement of all things. Just as the incredible forces in the heavens, and in nature (both visible and invisible) testify to His eternal Power. Even His Godhead (i.e. Divinity) can be rudimentarily understood through God's creation, and the awesome diversity and complexity of it all. And so as the Apostle Paul says here they are without excuse, "because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened." vs. 21
And so instead of glorifying God as God, or being thankful to Him, unbelieving mankind becomes futile in their thoughts. (Note: the word used to construct the verb translated futile here is mátaios; "empty", "vain", "pointless", "futile" etc., gleaned from TDNTA). That is in their wilful denial of God who created them, and sustains them, and all things. They instead of glorifying God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life and all things, having rejected that inherent revelation of God's Person, then become futile in their thoughts. And so as they try to explain life and all it's complexities apart from God, they inevitably come up with all kinds of wild theories and outlandish explanations as to origins of mankind and the planets and solar systems etc. Or they start to attribute various attributes of His Person to creation itself (exalting creation above the Creator) and or creating "god's" for themselves to which they down through the centuries have only distorted and suppressed His true image. And it is all because they have rejected the inherent revelation of God given them. And so with that their foolish hearts become darkened and with that they lose their capacity to discern what is of God, and what is not, and with it their connection to God Himself. Now I'm not talking about sin here, which separates all of unregenerate mankind from God, rather ones innate ability to know and perceive the Almighty, His Character, His Salvation, even His moral will for us all (Titus 2:11-14). And with that, and yet still being spiritual beings; for God is Spirit (John 4:24) and mankind is created in His Image Gen. 1:26-27); they must find for themselves other "gods" or objects of worship. For having rejected the innate revelation and knowledge of the One true God, that God gives them of Himself, their hearts become darkened, and with that darkness comes all manner of distortion of the truth about God Himself and worship and glorification of His Person. And so Paul says of them here, 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. vs. 22-23
Notice the downward progression, first they make "idols" or representations of the Immortal God in the likeness of corruptible human beings. Then they degenerate further into making idols and images of birds and four-footed animals and all manner of creeping things etc. Attributing the manifested Eternal Powers of God the Creator to finite creation. And so instead of glorifying and worshipping God the Creator, as the Creator, Sustainer and Judge of all things; first they exalt themselves above God Himself, then as the darkness grows within them, they begin exalting lower and lower life forms in creation above not only themselves, but God Himself! The consequences of which the Apostle Paul elucidates for us beginning in verse 24, and which he will conclude in verse 32.
Vs. 24-25 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Notice that it is God, as an active judgment against them, who gives them up to uncleanness in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves. Now what is being referred to here is all manner of sexual sins and moral depravity. Now God does not make them sin, nor does God entice them, or anyone else to sin. He simply gives them up to the lusts of their hearts for their rejecting the revelation given them of His Person. Now to understand this one must realize there is a sense in which God often restrains people from being the worst they can be (consider Gen 20:1-7). And so with His giving them up to uncleanness in the lusts of their hearts to dishonor their bodies among themselves, because they worshipped and served the creature, rather than the Creator. Whatever restraints of conscience, or anything else, God had previously placed on them is now removed. And so with that they quickly degenerate into some very dark and depraved immoral conduct and behavior. And that is a very sad state of affairs for anyone to find themselves in. To not even realize the depraved state and defiled conduct that one is living in and for. Again this is the direct judgment of God on them because they "...exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen." vs. 25
Now unless you think this is somehow exclusive to only those who worship pagan idols, think again! For this very real judgment of God can find anyone who also knowingly worships and serves the creature, rather than the Creator.
Vs. 26-27 26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
The Apostle Paul continues his discourse on the downward path that those who choose to worship and serve the creature, rather than the Creator will find themselves on. And so God gives them up (same word as in verse 24) to vile passions. The reference here is to homosexuality in all of it's abominable forms, manifestations and practices; whether by the male or the female. God's judgment on them is that they should burn in their lust for (lit. be inflamed with desire for...) one another (vs. 26-27). Thus rather than having normal healthy sexual affections for the opposite gender, they burn with insatiable sexual desires for each other!, "receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due." Now the reference here is to the universally observable devastating effects on the soul, mind, and body that homosexual conduct has always reaped on those who practice it. From mental and emotional disorders, to serious health conditions, to the separation of the human soul from God Himself! Homosexual conduct in all it's forms, not only degrades the human person, it devastates them! Thus there is nothing "evolved" or "enlightened" about it. It is as old and as degenerate as the tragic history of rebellions mankind themselves. Thus there is nothing "liberating" in either accepting it, or trying to legitimize it, through man's civil laws, or by changes in the collective "social conscience" (Rom 6:16). For all such things do not testify to an "evolving" or "enlightened" society, but too a morally degenerating one! Thus trying to justify such Godless behavior is only to show oneself to be on the same downward path! For from the beginning God has always condemned such degenerate and degrading behavior as not fitting for anyone, much less His own people to partake in (Lev 18:22, 29, 20:13; Deut. 23:17; 1 Cor 6:9; 1 Tim 1:9-10 etc.). Because as Paul says here, it is God's active judgment against their persons, for their worshipping and serving the creature rather than the Creator who is blessed forever, amen. Therefore instead of trying to legitimize what God Himself condemns, people need to repent of it (that is first have a change of mind about it) so that they might in faith call on the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ to be set free from it. For the Lord Jesus Christ offers salvation from all sins (no matter how heinous), to one and to all. But it is up to the individual to make that active and positive choice for Him, to both believe in Him, and to obey Him. For there is a Judgment Day when each and every one of us will give an accounting of ourselves to God (Heb 9:22). And so no-one who rejects God Son's Person, much less God's everlasting moral standards, and thus chooses to live an immoral and Godless life will have any recourse on that Day. For the Lord Jesus Christ Himself will take vengeance on all those who do not know God, nor obey the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess. 1:8).
Vs. 28-32 Now if sexual depravity was all that one would experience for worshipping and serving the creature rather than the Creator, then one might take refuge in the fact that the damage might be relatively "self-contained," to said individuals. But sin is never that simple, or "self-contained." Since God often visits the sins of the parents to the third and fourth generations on those who hate Him (see Exodus 20:5-6). And so as the Apostle Paul demonstrates here God's judgment goes way beyond the individual, and reaches to the very heart of the societies in which we dwell when the people within them wilfully choose to reject true knowledge of Him. And so we all are faced with not only the prospect of a personal depravity, if we reject the Lord, but also a societal one. Thus we are given here a most dreadful list of the depraved, wicked, and unrighteous conduct that emanates from, and encompasses the lives of those who shut out true knowledge of God from their hearts and minds, and instead seek to live independently of Him. It is a literal torrent of unrighteousness, immorality, evil acts, violence, and cruelty. And so the Apostle Paul in this section again illuminates this all to us by saying: 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Now the word Paul uses in verse 28 to describe them as having a debased mind is adokimos, it is the antithesis of the word dokimos: tested, proven, valued, approved. Now since dokimos has to do with the testing and proving of, or proven qualities, characteristics, or character of something or someone. Adokimos is to be utterly disqualified, disproved, unsound. Or as Paul uses it in here in it's strongest moral sense depraved. Thus Paul is using it here in describing a hardened and degenerate people who have lost any and all sound moral convictions, because their conscience has been stripped of them. Thus having lost all moral sensibilities that make for peaceable living, and loving others as God commands we all do; such people live lives that are marked by cruelty, vanity, and every form of immorality. Thus they live lives that are devoid of any sense of reasonability towards God and or care or concern for their fellow persons. And so from verse 29-32 the Apostle gives us a catalogue of sins and vices that mark the lives of those who been given over to a debased mind. Again this is because they first hardened themselves towards God, which always ends in ones own ruin, as God then gives them over to practice every form of wickedness, violence, and evil (consider Prov 10:27; 11:5-6 etc.). Now Paul says that their lives are filled with these sins (literally the word he uses means to be completely full of them), and so they are not lacking in any sort of unrighteousness, wickedness or cruelty. Since for them that is their now default state of conscience and desire (consider Prov 29:27). All told then Paul will list 23 different godless traits that mark their person's and lives which we will now try to look at individually.
1) First Paul says that they are filled with unrighteousness (i.e. unrighteousness, iniquity, injustice, wrong-doing). The word Paul uses here is the antithesis to being righteous and just in one's dealings with God, or ones fellow person. And thus carries within it an aspect of unfaithfulness. At the heart of it is a wilful violation of God's Law, or even the civil laws of man. Which they knowingly circumvent if it serves their own interests and desires. It is then not just a violation of God's moral decrees which are to govern and protect mankind from sin, (and each other). But it is to be wilfully unjust in one's dealings with one's fellow person. And so unrighteousness here is an encompassing word which marks their very lives, encompassing everything from exploiting wage earners, widows, orphans, the poor etc. (Deut. 10:16; Malachi 3:5). To taking bribes or "kickbacks" (Isaiah 5:23), to showing partiality, to justifying the wicked, or wicked acts through the Law (Deut. 16:19; Malachi 2:9; 3:5), to everything else that is a knowing violation of God's Word which makes clear what is righteousness and what is not, to violating mans civil laws and decrees. That are again supposed to provide equity, fairness, and justice for all. And so people who do and justify their own unrighteousness, whether this be their own lawless behavior, or their own or another's unrighteousness, injustice, or inequity will have no place in the Kingdom of God (consider Prov 17:5; Matt 13:36-43; Luke 13:22-30).
2) sexual immorality (porniea). The word Paul uses here is the word from which we get "pornography" from. It is a word which encompasses all forms of illicit sexual activities; everything from prostitution to fornication (sex outside of marriage), adultery (sex with another's marriage partner); sexual intercourse with close relatives; homosexuality, lesbianism, even intercourse with animals, all which is condemned in God's Law. Even marrying and thus having sexual intercourse with a divorced person who has left their own spouse is not to be found amongst believers (Matt. 5:32; 19:9). For all such things are a distortion and perversion of what God commands for humanity so that we might experience healthy sexual pleasure within the sanctified and safe confines of a lifetime marriage commitment. Which not only preserves the individual, but also the greater society, which is self-evident to all who have observed, or have experienced the devastating effects that inherently come with sexual sins. Again sin, especially sexual sin, is never "self-contained".
3) wickedness (poneria). Though almost identical in spelling to the previous word in the original language, this word is the more encompassing for all which is morally or spiritually wicked, and thus is named such in the N.T. (see Eph. 6:12). Here it's usage is used to describe the very nature of said individuals. It's related word poneros has to do with the wickedness of mankind which emanates from their unregenerate or degenerate hearts, which makes them enemies of God (John 3:19; 7:7; Col. 1:21). In the spiritual realm it has to do with demonic spiritual powers, and thus quite possibly one engaging in occult activities. In Matt 13:19; 1 John 2:13; 5:18 it is used as an appellation for Satan and thus is directly linked too his own people (1 John 3:12). This word is also used of the Pharisees in their opposition to Jesus (Matt 12:34-35) as well it is used to mark the people in the last days who have rejected the Lord (2 Tim. 2:13). In Heb 3:12 it used to warn of having an evil heart of unbelief. Those who willfully distort or oppose the Gospel of God are also referred to as evil ("Jehovah witnesses" for example), and thus believers are to shun all contact with them (2 John 11; 3 John 11). Though this world and people in it are wicked, this does not preclude them from salvation, as the Gospel is God's remedy for every person's own inner wickedness and evil (Col 1:21-22).
4) covetousness (pleonexia), This word is used to describe a "greedy desire for more" (Enhanced Strong's), but also entails exploiting or taking advantage of people for ones own profit or gain. In the church covetousness marks false apostles, prophets, teachers etc. (2 Peter 2:3, 14). In contrast the Apostle Paul shuns all such things, instead living honestly and with integrity (1 Thess. 2:5). The Lord Jesus says covetousness emanates from a unregenerate person's heart and thus marks their life (Mark 7:22). And so throughout the Bible, and specifically in the N.T., covetousness is condemned as idolatry (Col 3:5). Jesus again warns about covetousness in Luke 12:15-21, since one's possessions will not deliver ones soul. The Apostle Paul loathes and condemns the lust, avarice, and greed of this world in Eph. 4:19. And goes on to command that such is not fitting for any of God's people to partake in, nor to try to justify in their own lives (Eph. 5:3; Col. 3:5). Since covetousness is not only the root of all evil, it has ruined the faith of many who have given themselves over to it (consider 1 Tim. 6:6-10). And so covetousness' is not just evil because it puts one's desires for whatever one desires before the will of God. Covetousness is evil because of the inherent harm it brings to oneself and others through ones own greedy desires and pursuits for more and more. And so when one makes mammon ones "god", one will become morally and spiritually corrupted within as Jesus warns us all about (Matt 6:19-24). This is clearly seen in Satan who is said through his own greed and lust for power and more and more possessions became filled with violence within (Ezek 28:16). Those then who are given over to it, will evitably live lives and have values that reflect that inner corruption that again is Scripturally said to be the root of all evil, all which be judged and condemned on the last day.
5) maliciousness (kakia) rendered malice in six out of 11 occurrences in the NKJ (1 Cor 5:8; 14:20; Eph 4:31; Col 3:8; Titus 3:3; 1 Peter 2:1) this word in many ways parallels the meaning of the word poneria when referring to that which is evil. Here the Apostle Paul is using it as the expression of evil which begins in the heart and moves out from there. That people who have rejected knowledge of God are said to be full of it, having deep seated thoughts of ill will towards others, which is far different than then having a passing disagreeable thought and then confessing it as sin and moving away from it. Instead these peoples minds and lives are filled with malicious and evil desires towards others, and thus neither natural and healthy neighborly love, nor Christian brotherly love and affections have any place within such a persons heart and mind (consider Prov 21:10).
6) "full of envy" First compare the word translated full in vs. 29 with it's other negative usages in Matt. 23:28; Rom 1:29; James 3:8; 2 Peter 2:14; before seeing its positive usages in Rom 15:14 and James 3:17 to get a good sense of it's "weight" in modifying nouns. The Apostle Paul uses it here as an opening remark before He will go on and list the rest of the godless characteristics that mark those who have rejected God and true knowledge of His Person. Now regarding their being full of envy this again is not something they occasionally feel inside themselves, rather this is a continual state of being for them, harboring ill will, and ill feelings towards others because of some real or presumed advantage experienced by others (gleaned from LN 88.160). And so such people often express their envy with rage, violence, even murder is linked with it in Rom 1:29 and Gal. 5:21. One can then easily see how destructive a force envy is, since the envious person is not only inclined to threaten or even seek the harm of others, envy inherently harms anyone who harbors it (Job 5:2; Prov. 14:30). On a side note envy is also condemned as a demonic and evil impulse that brings nothing but rivalries and strife within Christian fellowship because of bitterly envious people forwarding their own evil ambitions and desires (see James 3:14-16. Note a different word is used in James then is being discussed here though the principal is clearly seen there).
7) full of murder. As Jesus said murder always begins in the heart (Matt 15:19), and here the unregenerate heart is said full of desires for it. Whether this is the premeditated murder, or the killing of another while committing a crime (see LN 20.82). These people whose hearts are vacant of the love of God, think nothing of killing another person. Yet murder is the ultimate offense against God, for it is the unlawful taking of another person's life, who also bears the image of God.
8) full of strife. Meaning very sharp and bitter verbal contentions and arguments, often where harsh words and cutting language are used. This word is also used of those who continually use of harsh words and critical language when speaking of others. That they are full of strife means reasoning with them is not very likely, since that is their default disposition, and that is how they "resolve" conflicts not reasonability and peaceably, but by fierce verbal arguments. Therefore such a disposition and behavior is utterly unfitting for any Christian, since brotherly love and peace are what we are called to (consider 1 Cor 3:3). Louw-Nida says it is "conflict resulting from rivalry and discord" LN 39.22
9) full of deceit. The word Paul uses here means to deceive, trick, even to lure someone. This word is used of Pharisees and their desire to take Jesus by trickery so that they could kill Him (Matt 26:4). It is also used by the Apostle Peter in describing and condemning Simon the sorcerer as being full of all deceit and fraud (Acts 13:10). The Apostle Paul uses it once as a sort of "caricature" of his own "cunning" in catching the Corinthians unaware so as to test their own faithfulness to Christ (2 Cor 12:16). Positively and Prophetically this word is used to describe the Lord Jesus Christ in whom no guile or deceit is found (Isaiah 53:9; 1 Peter 2:22). Therefore all believers are commanded to put away all deceit from their lives and mouths (1 Peter 2:1; 3:10). Finally it's last usage in the N.T. is of the 144,000 in Rev 14:4-5 which says of them: 4 These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. 5 And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God. (Note: All other N.T. usages are found in Mark 7:22; John 1:47; Rom 3:13; 13:13; Col. 2:8; 1 Thess. 2:3).
10) full of evil-mindedness. Related to the word kakia (see no. 5) and based on the word kakos (evil) from which both are drawn. Louw Nida states of the word translated evil-mindedness here as "an evil disposition leading one to habitually engage in malicious acts—‘evil disposition, malice." LN 88.113
This word appears only once in the N.T. here in Rom 1:29, and once in the Septuagint (Greek O.T.) in Ester 8:12-13. TDNTA says it is "intentional wickedness", "malice." It's use here indicates a person who is bent on evil towards others, both doing it, and forwarding it, being born out of their own hearts deep-seated meanness (gleaned from Webster's Unabridged Dictionary).
11) "they are whisperers" Literally they are habitually engaging in gossip about others (LN). Enhanced Strong's calls them: "whispers", "secret slanders", "detractors". You'll know them when they lean over your shoulder and whisper something unbecoming, detracting, or downright slanderous about someone to you. Such people should be accursed because it is by their willfully doing so, that they forward the emotional harm and or physical abuse of others. Now though this word appears only here in the N.T., the Bible is clear that those who practice such things will come under the judgment of God (consider Psalm 50:16-21, vs. 20; and Psalm 101:5).
12) "backbiters" What distinguishes this word from the previous one is here the emphasis is on the open and brazen defaming of others. Whereas the previous words emphasis was on the habitual gossiper who is always "talking behind peoples backs" as it were. Here the emphasis is on the fearless slanderer, the person who thinks nothing of openly and brazenly defaming another individual.
13) "haters of God" The word used here is not describing a sin of ignorance, of not knowing the true Nature of God. This word is being used to describe a willful and deep seated hatred of God because of who God is and the righteousness He Himself always exemplifies, commands, and stands up for (consider Prov. 29:27 for a principal on this). Thus they hate God because they do indeed know His Character. And thus knowing it they (like Satan) know that God will be the One who will judge them and fully repay them for all their wickedness (consider Job 21:30; Prov. 16:4; 2 Peter 2:9).
14) "violent" Violence is what characterized the world in the days of Noah before God brought in the world-wide flood (Gen 6:11, 13). That these who have rejected God are likewise violent puts them in that same state of being that existed and prevailed over humanity then. Now the word the Apostle uses here can also imply "insolence". And it begins a three word exhortation on human pride, which includes the next two words, "proud" and "boosters" (TDNTA). Now the word in question here is very broad in it's scope and meaning. But in the main always implies an arrogance through which one verbally or physically abuses or mistreats another. Insolence, ignominy, insults, scorn, disparagement are said to be part and parcel of its lessor sense. In it's worst sense tyrants exemplify it's darkest qualities seeking to fully dominate others, and so wicked acts of aggression, as well as sexual violence, are all said to be born out of it. In the main it is the arrogant violation of the rights or sphere of another. "In human relations it means either scorn and contempt or more actively, hurt and violence." (TDNTA no. 2). The Apostle Paul uses this word only here, and in 1 Tim 1:13 where he describes his pre-conversion life, though steeped in religion, as that of only being an "insolent" man.
15) "proud" This is the second word in Paul's three part exhortation on aspects of human pride that has rejected God, placing insolence and boastfulness for and aft of it. In 2 Tim 3:2 Paul again places the proud right in the middle of boasters and blasphemers. While in Mark 7:22 Jesus places pride between blasphemy and foolishness. And so the proud are insolent, boastful, blasphemers who do not regard God, nor see their need His salvation, just as they openly disdain and blasphemy others. And so God resists all such people, who do not have a proper reverence for His Person (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Indeed He scatters them in the imaginations of their own hearts (Luke 1:51). Just as the Scripture says: "God preserves the faithful, but fully repays the proud person" (Psalm 31:23).
16) "boasters" This is the final word in Paul's three word exhortation, again all which covers different aspects of human pride. Here Paul describes the braggart, the one who makes more of themselves then in reality they are, or are capable of doing (TDNTA). Yet the boastful will nor stand in God's sight (Psalm 5:5). And so whatever boastful confidence they have in themselves is at best fleeting.
17) "inventors of evil things" That is whatever God given intelligence, creative abilities, or other skills they posses or acquire in this life, they inevitable use to scheme and dream up all manner of evil acts and occurrences. Anarchy, mischief, and all forms of criminal and unsettling acts. For them joy is found destruction, in creating all manner of chaos and confusion, not forwarding peace and tranquility, or positive human creativity and ingenuity.
18) "disobedient to parents" If the future of a society is said to be "bundled up in it's children" how much more its demise, if such reject God. That the Apostle Paul says that children will become disobedient to parents is not the normal phases of life that all children go through (to lessor or greater degrees) in learning obedience to parents. No, here the implication is that in rejecting knowledge of God, and been given over to a debased mind, they and their children will be utterly rebellious to all parental authority, (indeed authority in general), which of course will also mark the last days (2 Tim 3:2) as all natural respect for God given authority only becomes disdained and disobeyed as mankind hardens themselves towards God, so God will give them over to all of the sins Paul lists here.
19) "undiscerning", That is they are devoid of a moral and spiritual "conscience". Being utterly devoid of any understanding or even concern about the things that make for peace with God. And so they live without regard for the very real moral and spiritual dangers that exist in our world. Thus the issue is not a lack of scientific and technological knowledge, since in the last days this kind of knowledge will increase at unheard rates in human history (Daniel 12:4). The issue is about their having neither a moral conscience, nor the spiritual discernment to know what is of God and what is not, and thus what is good, and what is Satanic and evil! And so as God unfolds His designs on how He will close out human history, before He ushers in His everlasting Kingdom, none of the wicked will understand, but the wise will understand (Daniel 12:9; also consider 2 Thess. 2:11).
20) "untrustworthy" The word Paul uses here literal means "a covenant breaker." Someone who willingly and willfully breaks a sacred covenant or trust, that is what is implied here. And so the breaking of commitments, promises, marriage vows, words spoken in confidence and anything else all becomes acceptable to them if it serves their own interests, desires, or purposes. People who say ones "private life" is not to be a reflection of ones "public life" are deceiving themselves. Since one's private life is a direct testimony as to how one's public life and service will be conducted and rendered; whether with honesty and integrity, or with cunning, deceit, and duplicity.
21) "unloving" Not only will they be hardened towards showing neighborly love and basic human concern for others, they will even be hardened towards their own family members or "friends".
22) "unforgiving" It follows then that if one is unloving, then they will be unforgiving, since forgiveness is in many ways the ultimate expression of love. Which maybe why Jesus does not take our disobedience towards Him lightly when we seek it from Him and yet we do not freely extend it to others (consider Matt 18:21-35). For everything about the Gospel screams God's love for us all, and His desire to see us all (no matter we have done) forgiven and redeemed to Himself. Yet not all will receive His love and salvation for themselves, just as not all will want to be reconciled back to others in broken human relationships. And so a willingness to forgive is always the first step towards reconciliation. Yet these folks will be people who are utterly irreconcilable, unwilling to be reconciled either to God or their fellow person/s (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3). Instead they will not only be unforgiving, they will be people whose hearts and minds are fixed on exacting personal vengeance.
23) "unmerciful" This is the last in the list of Godless traits that defines those who have rejected God. They are a cruel and unkind people, who neither show mercy to anyone, nor do they themselves desire it. And so if being forgiving is the ultimate expression of love, to be unmerciful is the ultimate offense against it. Yet throughout the Scriptures, and specifically in the Gospel, God's mercy is not only exemplified by Jesus Christ, and through Him extended to us all (Rom 11:32), but it is also commanded of us all, having God's blessing on all those who themselves are merciful (consider Matt 5:7; 9:9-13, 18:33, 23:23; Luke 10:29-37; James 2:13 etc). Therefore to be unmerciful is the ultimate offense against the love of God. And yet as the Apostle Paul goes on to say in verse thirty two, these, "who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." vs. 32
Thus we have here a catalogue of some of the most heinous sins born out of human depravity. All which is the direct result of mankind's rebellion against, and rejection of God, and His will for them. It is then a very depraved and dark world when God (and true knowledge of Him) is willfully shunned and shut out by anyone. Yet as that becomes the "normal" state of each individual's heart, mind, and soul, when people (individually or collectively) harden themselves towards God. Both they and the societies in which they dwell will have to bear the immense consequences of being given over to such things. For the wrath (and thus judgment) of God when manifested by such things, by giving people over to such sins, means that both personal and societal catastrophes will be inevitable. For no one can sustain either peace or prosperity in their own lives, or in the greater societies where they dwell, when such things are the social norms. Wisdoms law simply dictates that. The only solution then is the Gospel which can not only quell, but it can also eradicate such things from each and every believing individuals heart and mind.
Scripture Citations
Word Studies
Vs. 18 suppress the truth... katéchō, "to hold back", "suppress", Str. 2722; GK 2988; TDNT 2.2829; TDNTA 286; LN 13.150; 31.48; 37.17; 54.22; 57.1; 85.9 (19x)
Vs. 21 futile: ματαιόω/ματαιόομαι, "worthless", "empty", "vain" literally their thoughts and reasoning's became nonsense. Str. 3154; GK 3471; TDNT 4.523; TDNTA 571; LN 65.38 (1x)
Vs. 24 gave them up to..., ἀκαθαρσία; "uncleanness", "impurity", "immorality," "filthiness" especially in regards to sexual sins/"lusts of the flesh". Str 167; GK174; TDNTA 3.427; TDNTA 381; LN 79.54; 88.261 (10x)
Vs. 27 burned in their lust... ἐκκαίω (ekkaiō)/ἐκκαίομαι (ekkaiomai), Str 1572, GK 1706; LN 25.16 (1x)
Vs. 28 debased mind, ἀδόκιμος (adokimos), Str 96; GK 99; TDNT 2.255; TDNTA 181; LN 65.13; 88:111 (6x).
Vs. 29
filled with: πληρόω (derivative of πλήρης), (plērēs) "to be completely filled"; Str 4134; GK 4441; TDNT 6.283; TDNTA 867; LN 59.10, 59.35, 59.31 (90x)
unrighteousness, ἀδικία (adikia), Str 93; GK 94; TDNT 1.153; TDNTA 22; LN 88.21 (25x)
sexual immorality, πορνεία (porneia), Str 4202; GK 4518; TDNT 6.579; TDNTA 918; LN 88.271 (26x)
wickedness, πονηρία (ponēria), Str 4189; GK 4504; TDNT 6.562; TDNTA 912; LN 88.108 (7x) also see πονηρός (poneros), Str 4190; GK 4505; TDNT 6.546; TDNTA 912 (76x)
murder φόνος (phonos), Str 5408; GK 5840; LN 20.82 (Matt 15:19; Mark 7:21; Luke 23:19; Acts 9:1; Rom 1:29; Gal 5:21; Heb 11:37; Rev 9:21) 10x
strife ἔρις, (eris), Str 2054; GK 2251; LN 39.22; 33.447; (Rom 1:29; 13:13; 1 Cor. 1:11; 3:3; 12:20; Gal 5:20; Phil 1:15; 1 Tim 6:4; Titus 3:9) 9x note: rendered strife and contentions in the NKJ
deceit δόλος (dolos); deceit, trickery, cunning, Str 1388; GK 1515; LN 88.154 (Matt 26:4; Mark 7:22; 14:1; John 1:47; Acts 13:10; Rom 1:29; 2 Cor 12:16; 1 Thess 2:3; 1 Peter 2:1, 22; 3:10; Rev 14:5) 12x
evil-mindedness, κακοήθεια (kakoētheia), Str 2550; GK 2799; TDNT 3.485; TDNTA 391; LN 88.113 (1x)
"they are whisperers", ψιθυριστής, (psithyristēs), Str 5588; GK 6031; LN 33.405 (1x)
Vs. 30
backbiters, κατάλαλος (katalalos), Str 2637; GK 2897; TDNT 4.3; TDNTA 495; LN 33.388 (1x)
boosters, ἀλαζών (alazōn), Str 213; GK 225; TDNT 1.226; TDNTA 36; LN 88.220 (Rom 1:30; 2 Tim 3:2) 2x
"inventors of evil things"
inventors: ἐφευρετής (epheuretēs), Str 2182; GK 2388; LN 30.69; (Rom. 1:30) 1x
"of evil things": κακός (kakos), GK 2805; Str 2556; TDNT 3.469; TDNTA 391; LN 20.18; 65.26; 72.22; 88.106 (40x)
"disobedient to parents",
disobedient: ἀπειθής (apeithēs), Str 545; GK 579; TDNT 6.10; TDNTA 818; LN 36.24 (Luke 1:17; Acts 26:19; Rom 1:30; 2 Tim 3:2; Titus 1:16, 3:3) 6x
"to parents": γονεύς (goneus), Str 1118; GK 1204; LN 10.18 (19x)
Vs. 31
"undiscerning", ἀσύνετος (asynetos), Str 801; GK 852; TDNT 7.888; TDNTA 1119; LN 32.49 (Matt 15:16; Mark 7:18; Rom 1:21, 31; 10:19) 5x
"untrustworthy", Str 802; GK 853; LN 34.45 (1x)
"unloving", ἄστοργος (astorgos), Str 794; GK 845; LN 25.42 (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3) 2x
"unforgiving", ἄσπονδος (aspondos), Str 786; GK 836; LN 40.7 (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3) 2x
"unmerciful", ἀνελεήμων (aneleēmōn), Str 415; GK 446; TDNT 2.487; TDNTA 222; LN 88.82 (1x)
Commentary
Vs. 18-19 The Apostle Paul having declared the way of salvation, "that just shall live by faith" (Rom 1:16-17), now declares the wrath of God against "...all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them." vs. 18-19
And so here the Apostle Paul makes it clear that a life of faith is not just believing, it is transformative living. Therefore in contrast to that, the Apostle Paul now shows us the wrath of God and just how He is manifesting it against those who do not believe, nor obey the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. And so Paul begins with the inherent revelation of God given to us all that testifies to God's Person and His Character. Yet these people instead of being drawn towards God through it, instead choose to live according to (and or justify) their own godlessness and evil desires, by which themselves then are wilfully hindering and opposing the truth of God. For it is by the ungodly and unrighteousness conduct of mankind that the truth is suppressed (lit. held back or down). And so mankind collectively suffers as the truth of God's is "suppressed" by those who live by and justify their evil and Godless desires and thus forward the ruinous effects of sin in this world, which ultimately affects us all. Thus the wrath of God is justly aroused against them because sin is not only an offense against His person, it is the ruin of us all who are created in His Person's Image.
Now the Apostle Paul's main point here is not about sin per-say, it is about unbelieving mankind's wilful rejection of the inherent revelation of God's Person and His Will for us all, that He has given us all, that is bringing the wrath of God down on all who do so. For God created mankind to bear His Image in the midst of His creation. In essence we are the crowning glory of God's creative genius of all His works, in all His creation. Thus God created us all (not only as spiritual beings wrapped in physical bodies so that we can all interact with all His creation) but with a moral/spiritual conscience and the capacities to live according to it. And so from our earliest years on, we all have a rudimentary sense of what is right and wrong, lying is wrong, stealing is wrong, mistreating others is wrong, etc. we all instinctively know this, and we all instinctively feel this, even as little children. And so we all have an innate sense of God's goodness, justice, love etc., even His wrath against what is evil. Even with indwelling sin corrupting us all, we all have the capacity to understand God, to know what He approves of and what He disapproves of. For it is instinctively ours from our Creator who has placed it right in the center of our free-will. Now the Apostle Paul will touch on this aspect of the inherent revelation of God that we all have a little later in chapter two (Rom 2:14-16). But for now His focus is own mankind's wilful suppression of that inherent revelation, by either hardening ones own heart and conscience towards Him, or externally by ones own wilful unrighteousness and ungodly conduct by which again the truth of God is held back or down. And so God's wrath is justly aroused against us when we do so. Yet from the Tower of Babylon forward mankind has continually sought for themselves ways to cast God aside, and live by their own "rule" and desires. Which as the Apostle Paul will go onto to say has far reaching consequences, both personally and societally. And so though mankind by their ungodly lifestyles and unrighteous conduct may suppress the truth, God still plays a very personal role in our lives, as Paul reveals here, for God is still God (Psalm 46:10).
Vs. 20-25 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
And so the Apostle Paul declares here that creation itself has always, and will always, testify to it's Creator. For through it God's invisible attributes are clearly seen; i.e. His Infinite Being is clearly seen in the galaxies and universes that have no end, same with the stars that cannot be numbered. Likewise creation itself testifies to God's Divine order of all things. Consider if you will the complexity of the molecular and subatomic world that baffles the mind, yet it all works in harmony. But more readily available to us, and easily observable to us, is the orchestration of creation itself: day and night, seasons and years, the moving of waves on the seas, the flowing of rivers into them, the growing of plants and trees, the births, migration, and movements of the animal kingdom, even the phases of human life, from conception to maturity, all testify to God's Divine arrangement of all things. Just as the incredible forces in the heavens, and in nature (both visible and invisible) testify to His eternal Power. Even His Godhead (i.e. Divinity) can be rudimentarily understood through God's creation, and the awesome diversity and complexity of it all. And so as the Apostle Paul says here they are without excuse, "because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened." vs. 21
And so instead of glorifying God as God, or being thankful to Him, unbelieving mankind becomes futile in their thoughts. (Note: the word used to construct the verb translated futile here is mátaios; "empty", "vain", "pointless", "futile" etc., gleaned from TDNTA). That is in their wilful denial of God who created them, and sustains them, and all things. They instead of glorifying God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life and all things, having rejected that inherent revelation of God's Person, then become futile in their thoughts. And so as they try to explain life and all it's complexities apart from God, they inevitably come up with all kinds of wild theories and outlandish explanations as to origins of mankind and the planets and solar systems etc. Or they start to attribute various attributes of His Person to creation itself (exalting creation above the Creator) and or creating "god's" for themselves to which they down through the centuries have only distorted and suppressed His true image. And it is all because they have rejected the inherent revelation of God given them. And so with that their foolish hearts become darkened and with that they lose their capacity to discern what is of God, and what is not, and with it their connection to God Himself. Now I'm not talking about sin here, which separates all of unregenerate mankind from God, rather ones innate ability to know and perceive the Almighty, His Character, His Salvation, even His moral will for us all (Titus 2:11-14). And with that, and yet still being spiritual beings; for God is Spirit (John 4:24) and mankind is created in His Image Gen. 1:26-27); they must find for themselves other "gods" or objects of worship. For having rejected the innate revelation and knowledge of the One true God, that God gives them of Himself, their hearts become darkened, and with that darkness comes all manner of distortion of the truth about God Himself and worship and glorification of His Person. And so Paul says of them here, 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. vs. 22-23
Notice the downward progression, first they make "idols" or representations of the Immortal God in the likeness of corruptible human beings. Then they degenerate further into making idols and images of birds and four-footed animals and all manner of creeping things etc. Attributing the manifested Eternal Powers of God the Creator to finite creation. And so instead of glorifying and worshipping God the Creator, as the Creator, Sustainer and Judge of all things; first they exalt themselves above God Himself, then as the darkness grows within them, they begin exalting lower and lower life forms in creation above not only themselves, but God Himself! The consequences of which the Apostle Paul elucidates for us beginning in verse 24, and which he will conclude in verse 32.
Vs. 24-25 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Notice that it is God, as an active judgment against them, who gives them up to uncleanness in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves. Now what is being referred to here is all manner of sexual sins and moral depravity. Now God does not make them sin, nor does God entice them, or anyone else to sin. He simply gives them up to the lusts of their hearts for their rejecting the revelation given them of His Person. Now to understand this one must realize there is a sense in which God often restrains people from being the worst they can be (consider Gen 20:1-7). And so with His giving them up to uncleanness in the lusts of their hearts to dishonor their bodies among themselves, because they worshipped and served the creature, rather than the Creator. Whatever restraints of conscience, or anything else, God had previously placed on them is now removed. And so with that they quickly degenerate into some very dark and depraved immoral conduct and behavior. And that is a very sad state of affairs for anyone to find themselves in. To not even realize the depraved state and defiled conduct that one is living in and for. Again this is the direct judgment of God on them because they "...exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen." vs. 25
Now unless you think this is somehow exclusive to only those who worship pagan idols, think again! For this very real judgment of God can find anyone who also knowingly worships and serves the creature, rather than the Creator.
Vs. 26-27 26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
The Apostle Paul continues his discourse on the downward path that those who choose to worship and serve the creature, rather than the Creator will find themselves on. And so God gives them up (same word as in verse 24) to vile passions. The reference here is to homosexuality in all of it's abominable forms, manifestations and practices; whether by the male or the female. God's judgment on them is that they should burn in their lust for (lit. be inflamed with desire for...) one another (vs. 26-27). Thus rather than having normal healthy sexual affections for the opposite gender, they burn with insatiable sexual desires for each other!, "receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due." Now the reference here is to the universally observable devastating effects on the soul, mind, and body that homosexual conduct has always reaped on those who practice it. From mental and emotional disorders, to serious health conditions, to the separation of the human soul from God Himself! Homosexual conduct in all it's forms, not only degrades the human person, it devastates them! Thus there is nothing "evolved" or "enlightened" about it. It is as old and as degenerate as the tragic history of rebellions mankind themselves. Thus there is nothing "liberating" in either accepting it, or trying to legitimize it, through man's civil laws, or by changes in the collective "social conscience" (Rom 6:16). For all such things do not testify to an "evolving" or "enlightened" society, but too a morally degenerating one! Thus trying to justify such Godless behavior is only to show oneself to be on the same downward path! For from the beginning God has always condemned such degenerate and degrading behavior as not fitting for anyone, much less His own people to partake in (Lev 18:22, 29, 20:13; Deut. 23:17; 1 Cor 6:9; 1 Tim 1:9-10 etc.). Because as Paul says here, it is God's active judgment against their persons, for their worshipping and serving the creature rather than the Creator who is blessed forever, amen. Therefore instead of trying to legitimize what God Himself condemns, people need to repent of it (that is first have a change of mind about it) so that they might in faith call on the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ to be set free from it. For the Lord Jesus Christ offers salvation from all sins (no matter how heinous), to one and to all. But it is up to the individual to make that active and positive choice for Him, to both believe in Him, and to obey Him. For there is a Judgment Day when each and every one of us will give an accounting of ourselves to God (Heb 9:22). And so no-one who rejects God Son's Person, much less God's everlasting moral standards, and thus chooses to live an immoral and Godless life will have any recourse on that Day. For the Lord Jesus Christ Himself will take vengeance on all those who do not know God, nor obey the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess. 1:8).
Vs. 28-32 Now if sexual depravity was all that one would experience for worshipping and serving the creature rather than the Creator, then one might take refuge in the fact that the damage might be relatively "self-contained," to said individuals. But sin is never that simple, or "self-contained." Since God often visits the sins of the parents to the third and fourth generations on those who hate Him (see Exodus 20:5-6). And so as the Apostle Paul demonstrates here God's judgment goes way beyond the individual, and reaches to the very heart of the societies in which we dwell when the people within them wilfully choose to reject true knowledge of Him. And so we all are faced with not only the prospect of a personal depravity, if we reject the Lord, but also a societal one. Thus we are given here a most dreadful list of the depraved, wicked, and unrighteous conduct that emanates from, and encompasses the lives of those who shut out true knowledge of God from their hearts and minds, and instead seek to live independently of Him. It is a literal torrent of unrighteousness, immorality, evil acts, violence, and cruelty. And so the Apostle Paul in this section again illuminates this all to us by saying: 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Now the word Paul uses in verse 28 to describe them as having a debased mind is adokimos, it is the antithesis of the word dokimos: tested, proven, valued, approved. Now since dokimos has to do with the testing and proving of, or proven qualities, characteristics, or character of something or someone. Adokimos is to be utterly disqualified, disproved, unsound. Or as Paul uses it in here in it's strongest moral sense depraved. Thus Paul is using it here in describing a hardened and degenerate people who have lost any and all sound moral convictions, because their conscience has been stripped of them. Thus having lost all moral sensibilities that make for peaceable living, and loving others as God commands we all do; such people live lives that are marked by cruelty, vanity, and every form of immorality. Thus they live lives that are devoid of any sense of reasonability towards God and or care or concern for their fellow persons. And so from verse 29-32 the Apostle gives us a catalogue of sins and vices that mark the lives of those who been given over to a debased mind. Again this is because they first hardened themselves towards God, which always ends in ones own ruin, as God then gives them over to practice every form of wickedness, violence, and evil (consider Prov 10:27; 11:5-6 etc.). Now Paul says that their lives are filled with these sins (literally the word he uses means to be completely full of them), and so they are not lacking in any sort of unrighteousness, wickedness or cruelty. Since for them that is their now default state of conscience and desire (consider Prov 29:27). All told then Paul will list 23 different godless traits that mark their person's and lives which we will now try to look at individually.
1) First Paul says that they are filled with unrighteousness (i.e. unrighteousness, iniquity, injustice, wrong-doing). The word Paul uses here is the antithesis to being righteous and just in one's dealings with God, or ones fellow person. And thus carries within it an aspect of unfaithfulness. At the heart of it is a wilful violation of God's Law, or even the civil laws of man. Which they knowingly circumvent if it serves their own interests and desires. It is then not just a violation of God's moral decrees which are to govern and protect mankind from sin, (and each other). But it is to be wilfully unjust in one's dealings with one's fellow person. And so unrighteousness here is an encompassing word which marks their very lives, encompassing everything from exploiting wage earners, widows, orphans, the poor etc. (Deut. 10:16; Malachi 3:5). To taking bribes or "kickbacks" (Isaiah 5:23), to showing partiality, to justifying the wicked, or wicked acts through the Law (Deut. 16:19; Malachi 2:9; 3:5), to everything else that is a knowing violation of God's Word which makes clear what is righteousness and what is not, to violating mans civil laws and decrees. That are again supposed to provide equity, fairness, and justice for all. And so people who do and justify their own unrighteousness, whether this be their own lawless behavior, or their own or another's unrighteousness, injustice, or inequity will have no place in the Kingdom of God (consider Prov 17:5; Matt 13:36-43; Luke 13:22-30).
2) sexual immorality (porniea). The word Paul uses here is the word from which we get "pornography" from. It is a word which encompasses all forms of illicit sexual activities; everything from prostitution to fornication (sex outside of marriage), adultery (sex with another's marriage partner); sexual intercourse with close relatives; homosexuality, lesbianism, even intercourse with animals, all which is condemned in God's Law. Even marrying and thus having sexual intercourse with a divorced person who has left their own spouse is not to be found amongst believers (Matt. 5:32; 19:9). For all such things are a distortion and perversion of what God commands for humanity so that we might experience healthy sexual pleasure within the sanctified and safe confines of a lifetime marriage commitment. Which not only preserves the individual, but also the greater society, which is self-evident to all who have observed, or have experienced the devastating effects that inherently come with sexual sins. Again sin, especially sexual sin, is never "self-contained".
3) wickedness (poneria). Though almost identical in spelling to the previous word in the original language, this word is the more encompassing for all which is morally or spiritually wicked, and thus is named such in the N.T. (see Eph. 6:12). Here it's usage is used to describe the very nature of said individuals. It's related word poneros has to do with the wickedness of mankind which emanates from their unregenerate or degenerate hearts, which makes them enemies of God (John 3:19; 7:7; Col. 1:21). In the spiritual realm it has to do with demonic spiritual powers, and thus quite possibly one engaging in occult activities. In Matt 13:19; 1 John 2:13; 5:18 it is used as an appellation for Satan and thus is directly linked too his own people (1 John 3:12). This word is also used of the Pharisees in their opposition to Jesus (Matt 12:34-35) as well it is used to mark the people in the last days who have rejected the Lord (2 Tim. 2:13). In Heb 3:12 it used to warn of having an evil heart of unbelief. Those who willfully distort or oppose the Gospel of God are also referred to as evil ("Jehovah witnesses" for example), and thus believers are to shun all contact with them (2 John 11; 3 John 11). Though this world and people in it are wicked, this does not preclude them from salvation, as the Gospel is God's remedy for every person's own inner wickedness and evil (Col 1:21-22).
4) covetousness (pleonexia), This word is used to describe a "greedy desire for more" (Enhanced Strong's), but also entails exploiting or taking advantage of people for ones own profit or gain. In the church covetousness marks false apostles, prophets, teachers etc. (2 Peter 2:3, 14). In contrast the Apostle Paul shuns all such things, instead living honestly and with integrity (1 Thess. 2:5). The Lord Jesus says covetousness emanates from a unregenerate person's heart and thus marks their life (Mark 7:22). And so throughout the Bible, and specifically in the N.T., covetousness is condemned as idolatry (Col 3:5). Jesus again warns about covetousness in Luke 12:15-21, since one's possessions will not deliver ones soul. The Apostle Paul loathes and condemns the lust, avarice, and greed of this world in Eph. 4:19. And goes on to command that such is not fitting for any of God's people to partake in, nor to try to justify in their own lives (Eph. 5:3; Col. 3:5). Since covetousness is not only the root of all evil, it has ruined the faith of many who have given themselves over to it (consider 1 Tim. 6:6-10). And so covetousness' is not just evil because it puts one's desires for whatever one desires before the will of God. Covetousness is evil because of the inherent harm it brings to oneself and others through ones own greedy desires and pursuits for more and more. And so when one makes mammon ones "god", one will become morally and spiritually corrupted within as Jesus warns us all about (Matt 6:19-24). This is clearly seen in Satan who is said through his own greed and lust for power and more and more possessions became filled with violence within (Ezek 28:16). Those then who are given over to it, will evitably live lives and have values that reflect that inner corruption that again is Scripturally said to be the root of all evil, all which be judged and condemned on the last day.
5) maliciousness (kakia) rendered malice in six out of 11 occurrences in the NKJ (1 Cor 5:8; 14:20; Eph 4:31; Col 3:8; Titus 3:3; 1 Peter 2:1) this word in many ways parallels the meaning of the word poneria when referring to that which is evil. Here the Apostle Paul is using it as the expression of evil which begins in the heart and moves out from there. That people who have rejected knowledge of God are said to be full of it, having deep seated thoughts of ill will towards others, which is far different than then having a passing disagreeable thought and then confessing it as sin and moving away from it. Instead these peoples minds and lives are filled with malicious and evil desires towards others, and thus neither natural and healthy neighborly love, nor Christian brotherly love and affections have any place within such a persons heart and mind (consider Prov 21:10).
6) "full of envy" First compare the word translated full in vs. 29 with it's other negative usages in Matt. 23:28; Rom 1:29; James 3:8; 2 Peter 2:14; before seeing its positive usages in Rom 15:14 and James 3:17 to get a good sense of it's "weight" in modifying nouns. The Apostle Paul uses it here as an opening remark before He will go on and list the rest of the godless characteristics that mark those who have rejected God and true knowledge of His Person. Now regarding their being full of envy this again is not something they occasionally feel inside themselves, rather this is a continual state of being for them, harboring ill will, and ill feelings towards others because of some real or presumed advantage experienced by others (gleaned from LN 88.160). And so such people often express their envy with rage, violence, even murder is linked with it in Rom 1:29 and Gal. 5:21. One can then easily see how destructive a force envy is, since the envious person is not only inclined to threaten or even seek the harm of others, envy inherently harms anyone who harbors it (Job 5:2; Prov. 14:30). On a side note envy is also condemned as a demonic and evil impulse that brings nothing but rivalries and strife within Christian fellowship because of bitterly envious people forwarding their own evil ambitions and desires (see James 3:14-16. Note a different word is used in James then is being discussed here though the principal is clearly seen there).
7) full of murder. As Jesus said murder always begins in the heart (Matt 15:19), and here the unregenerate heart is said full of desires for it. Whether this is the premeditated murder, or the killing of another while committing a crime (see LN 20.82). These people whose hearts are vacant of the love of God, think nothing of killing another person. Yet murder is the ultimate offense against God, for it is the unlawful taking of another person's life, who also bears the image of God.
8) full of strife. Meaning very sharp and bitter verbal contentions and arguments, often where harsh words and cutting language are used. This word is also used of those who continually use of harsh words and critical language when speaking of others. That they are full of strife means reasoning with them is not very likely, since that is their default disposition, and that is how they "resolve" conflicts not reasonability and peaceably, but by fierce verbal arguments. Therefore such a disposition and behavior is utterly unfitting for any Christian, since brotherly love and peace are what we are called to (consider 1 Cor 3:3). Louw-Nida says it is "conflict resulting from rivalry and discord" LN 39.22
9) full of deceit. The word Paul uses here means to deceive, trick, even to lure someone. This word is used of Pharisees and their desire to take Jesus by trickery so that they could kill Him (Matt 26:4). It is also used by the Apostle Peter in describing and condemning Simon the sorcerer as being full of all deceit and fraud (Acts 13:10). The Apostle Paul uses it once as a sort of "caricature" of his own "cunning" in catching the Corinthians unaware so as to test their own faithfulness to Christ (2 Cor 12:16). Positively and Prophetically this word is used to describe the Lord Jesus Christ in whom no guile or deceit is found (Isaiah 53:9; 1 Peter 2:22). Therefore all believers are commanded to put away all deceit from their lives and mouths (1 Peter 2:1; 3:10). Finally it's last usage in the N.T. is of the 144,000 in Rev 14:4-5 which says of them: 4 These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. 5 And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God. (Note: All other N.T. usages are found in Mark 7:22; John 1:47; Rom 3:13; 13:13; Col. 2:8; 1 Thess. 2:3).
10) full of evil-mindedness. Related to the word kakia (see no. 5) and based on the word kakos (evil) from which both are drawn. Louw Nida states of the word translated evil-mindedness here as "an evil disposition leading one to habitually engage in malicious acts—‘evil disposition, malice." LN 88.113
This word appears only once in the N.T. here in Rom 1:29, and once in the Septuagint (Greek O.T.) in Ester 8:12-13. TDNTA says it is "intentional wickedness", "malice." It's use here indicates a person who is bent on evil towards others, both doing it, and forwarding it, being born out of their own hearts deep-seated meanness (gleaned from Webster's Unabridged Dictionary).
11) "they are whisperers" Literally they are habitually engaging in gossip about others (LN). Enhanced Strong's calls them: "whispers", "secret slanders", "detractors". You'll know them when they lean over your shoulder and whisper something unbecoming, detracting, or downright slanderous about someone to you. Such people should be accursed because it is by their willfully doing so, that they forward the emotional harm and or physical abuse of others. Now though this word appears only here in the N.T., the Bible is clear that those who practice such things will come under the judgment of God (consider Psalm 50:16-21, vs. 20; and Psalm 101:5).
12) "backbiters" What distinguishes this word from the previous one is here the emphasis is on the open and brazen defaming of others. Whereas the previous words emphasis was on the habitual gossiper who is always "talking behind peoples backs" as it were. Here the emphasis is on the fearless slanderer, the person who thinks nothing of openly and brazenly defaming another individual.
13) "haters of God" The word used here is not describing a sin of ignorance, of not knowing the true Nature of God. This word is being used to describe a willful and deep seated hatred of God because of who God is and the righteousness He Himself always exemplifies, commands, and stands up for (consider Prov. 29:27 for a principal on this). Thus they hate God because they do indeed know His Character. And thus knowing it they (like Satan) know that God will be the One who will judge them and fully repay them for all their wickedness (consider Job 21:30; Prov. 16:4; 2 Peter 2:9).
14) "violent" Violence is what characterized the world in the days of Noah before God brought in the world-wide flood (Gen 6:11, 13). That these who have rejected God are likewise violent puts them in that same state of being that existed and prevailed over humanity then. Now the word the Apostle uses here can also imply "insolence". And it begins a three word exhortation on human pride, which includes the next two words, "proud" and "boosters" (TDNTA). Now the word in question here is very broad in it's scope and meaning. But in the main always implies an arrogance through which one verbally or physically abuses or mistreats another. Insolence, ignominy, insults, scorn, disparagement are said to be part and parcel of its lessor sense. In it's worst sense tyrants exemplify it's darkest qualities seeking to fully dominate others, and so wicked acts of aggression, as well as sexual violence, are all said to be born out of it. In the main it is the arrogant violation of the rights or sphere of another. "In human relations it means either scorn and contempt or more actively, hurt and violence." (TDNTA no. 2). The Apostle Paul uses this word only here, and in 1 Tim 1:13 where he describes his pre-conversion life, though steeped in religion, as that of only being an "insolent" man.
15) "proud" This is the second word in Paul's three part exhortation on aspects of human pride that has rejected God, placing insolence and boastfulness for and aft of it. In 2 Tim 3:2 Paul again places the proud right in the middle of boasters and blasphemers. While in Mark 7:22 Jesus places pride between blasphemy and foolishness. And so the proud are insolent, boastful, blasphemers who do not regard God, nor see their need His salvation, just as they openly disdain and blasphemy others. And so God resists all such people, who do not have a proper reverence for His Person (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Indeed He scatters them in the imaginations of their own hearts (Luke 1:51). Just as the Scripture says: "God preserves the faithful, but fully repays the proud person" (Psalm 31:23).
16) "boasters" This is the final word in Paul's three word exhortation, again all which covers different aspects of human pride. Here Paul describes the braggart, the one who makes more of themselves then in reality they are, or are capable of doing (TDNTA). Yet the boastful will nor stand in God's sight (Psalm 5:5). And so whatever boastful confidence they have in themselves is at best fleeting.
17) "inventors of evil things" That is whatever God given intelligence, creative abilities, or other skills they posses or acquire in this life, they inevitable use to scheme and dream up all manner of evil acts and occurrences. Anarchy, mischief, and all forms of criminal and unsettling acts. For them joy is found destruction, in creating all manner of chaos and confusion, not forwarding peace and tranquility, or positive human creativity and ingenuity.
19) "undiscerning", That is they are devoid of a moral and spiritual "conscience". Being utterly devoid of any understanding or even concern about the things that make for peace with God. And so they live without regard for the very real moral and spiritual dangers that exist in our world. Thus the issue is not a lack of scientific and technological knowledge, since in the last days this kind of knowledge will increase at unheard rates in human history (Daniel 12:4). The issue is about their having neither a moral conscience, nor the spiritual discernment to know what is of God and what is not, and thus what is good, and what is Satanic and evil! And so as God unfolds His designs on how He will close out human history, before He ushers in His everlasting Kingdom, none of the wicked will understand, but the wise will understand (Daniel 12:9; also consider 2 Thess. 2:11).
20) "untrustworthy" The word Paul uses here literal means "a covenant breaker." Someone who willingly and willfully breaks a sacred covenant or trust, that is what is implied here. And so the breaking of commitments, promises, marriage vows, words spoken in confidence and anything else all becomes acceptable to them if it serves their own interests, desires, or purposes. People who say ones "private life" is not to be a reflection of ones "public life" are deceiving themselves. Since one's private life is a direct testimony as to how one's public life and service will be conducted and rendered; whether with honesty and integrity, or with cunning, deceit, and duplicity.
21) "unloving" Not only will they be hardened towards showing neighborly love and basic human concern for others, they will even be hardened towards their own family members or "friends".
22) "unforgiving" It follows then that if one is unloving, then they will be unforgiving, since forgiveness is in many ways the ultimate expression of love. Which maybe why Jesus does not take our disobedience towards Him lightly when we seek it from Him and yet we do not freely extend it to others (consider Matt 18:21-35). For everything about the Gospel screams God's love for us all, and His desire to see us all (no matter we have done) forgiven and redeemed to Himself. Yet not all will receive His love and salvation for themselves, just as not all will want to be reconciled back to others in broken human relationships. And so a willingness to forgive is always the first step towards reconciliation. Yet these folks will be people who are utterly irreconcilable, unwilling to be reconciled either to God or their fellow person/s (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3). Instead they will not only be unforgiving, they will be people whose hearts and minds are fixed on exacting personal vengeance.
23) "unmerciful" This is the last in the list of Godless traits that defines those who have rejected God. They are a cruel and unkind people, who neither show mercy to anyone, nor do they themselves desire it. And so if being forgiving is the ultimate expression of love, to be unmerciful is the ultimate offense against it. Yet throughout the Scriptures, and specifically in the Gospel, God's mercy is not only exemplified by Jesus Christ, and through Him extended to us all (Rom 11:32), but it is also commanded of us all, having God's blessing on all those who themselves are merciful (consider Matt 5:7; 9:9-13, 18:33, 23:23; Luke 10:29-37; James 2:13 etc). Therefore to be unmerciful is the ultimate offense against the love of God. And yet as the Apostle Paul goes on to say in verse thirty two, these, "who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." vs. 32
Thus we have here a catalogue of some of the most heinous sins born out of human depravity. All which is the direct result of mankind's rebellion against, and rejection of God, and His will for them. It is then a very depraved and dark world when God (and true knowledge of Him) is willfully shunned and shut out by anyone. Yet as that becomes the "normal" state of each individual's heart, mind, and soul, when people (individually or collectively) harden themselves towards God. Both they and the societies in which they dwell will have to bear the immense consequences of being given over to such things. For the wrath (and thus judgment) of God when manifested by such things, by giving people over to such sins, means that both personal and societal catastrophes will be inevitable. For no one can sustain either peace or prosperity in their own lives, or in the greater societies where they dwell, when such things are the social norms. Wisdoms law simply dictates that. The only solution then is the Gospel which can not only quell, but it can also eradicate such things from each and every believing individuals heart and mind.
Scripture Citations
Word Studies
Vs. 18 suppress the truth... katéchō, "to hold back", "suppress", Str. 2722; GK 2988; TDNT 2.2829; TDNTA 286; LN 13.150; 31.48; 37.17; 54.22; 57.1; 85.9 (19x)
Vs. 21 futile: ματαιόω/ματαιόομαι, "worthless", "empty", "vain" literally their thoughts and reasoning's became nonsense. Str. 3154; GK 3471; TDNT 4.523; TDNTA 571; LN 65.38 (1x)
Vs. 24 gave them up to..., ἀκαθαρσία; "uncleanness", "impurity", "immorality," "filthiness" especially in regards to sexual sins/"lusts of the flesh". Str 167; GK174; TDNTA 3.427; TDNTA 381; LN 79.54; 88.261 (10x)
Vs. 26 vile passions: ἀτιμία, antithesis of honor, or honorable conduct, "dishonor", "shameful" "disgraceful", "vile". Str. 819; GK 871; LN 53.33-53.40; 87.71 (7x)
Vs. 27 burned in their lust... ἐκκαίω (ekkaiō)/ἐκκαίομαι (ekkaiomai), Str 1572, GK 1706; LN 25.16 (1x)
Vs. 28 debased mind, ἀδόκιμος (adokimos), Str 96; GK 99; TDNT 2.255; TDNTA 181; LN 65.13; 88:111 (6x).
Vs. 29
filled with: πληρόω (derivative of πλήρης), (plērēs) "to be completely filled"; Str 4134; GK 4441; TDNT 6.283; TDNTA 867; LN 59.10, 59.35, 59.31 (90x)
unrighteousness, ἀδικία (adikia), Str 93; GK 94; TDNT 1.153; TDNTA 22; LN 88.21 (25x)
sexual immorality, πορνεία (porneia), Str 4202; GK 4518; TDNT 6.579; TDNTA 918; LN 88.271 (26x)
wickedness, πονηρία (ponēria), Str 4189; GK 4504; TDNT 6.562; TDNTA 912; LN 88.108 (7x) also see πονηρός (poneros), Str 4190; GK 4505; TDNT 6.546; TDNTA 912 (76x)
covetousness, πλεονεξία (pleonexia), Str 4124; GK 4432; TDNT 6.266; TDNTA 864; LN 25.22; 88.144; (Mark 7:22; Luke 12:15; Rom 1:29; 2 Cor 9:5; Eph 4:19; 5:3; Col 3:5; 1 Thess 2:5; 2 Peter 2:3, 14) 10x
maliciousness, κακία (kakia), Str 2549; GK 2798; TDNT 3.482; TDNTA 391; LN 22.15; 88.105; 88.199 (Matt 6:34; Acts 8:22; Rom 1:29; 1 Cor 14:20; Eph. 4:31; Col 3:8; Titus 3:3; James 1:21; 1 Peter 2:1, 16; (11x)
full of: μεστός (mestos), Str 3324; GK3550; (not in TDNT); LN 59.39; 68.77; 78.45 (Matt 23:38; John 19:29; 21:11; Rom 1:29; 15:14; James 3:8, 17; 2 Peter 2:14) 8x
envy, φθόνος (phthonos), Str 5355; GK 5784; LN 88.160 (Matt 27:18; Mark 15:10; Rom 1:29; Gal 5:21; Phil 1:15; 1 Tim 6:4; Titus 3:3; James 4:5; 1 Peter 2:1) 9xmaliciousness, κακία (kakia), Str 2549; GK 2798; TDNT 3.482; TDNTA 391; LN 22.15; 88.105; 88.199 (Matt 6:34; Acts 8:22; Rom 1:29; 1 Cor 14:20; Eph. 4:31; Col 3:8; Titus 3:3; James 1:21; 1 Peter 2:1, 16; (11x)
full of: μεστός (mestos), Str 3324; GK3550; (not in TDNT); LN 59.39; 68.77; 78.45 (Matt 23:38; John 19:29; 21:11; Rom 1:29; 15:14; James 3:8, 17; 2 Peter 2:14) 8x
murder φόνος (phonos), Str 5408; GK 5840; LN 20.82 (Matt 15:19; Mark 7:21; Luke 23:19; Acts 9:1; Rom 1:29; Gal 5:21; Heb 11:37; Rev 9:21) 10x
strife ἔρις, (eris), Str 2054; GK 2251; LN 39.22; 33.447; (Rom 1:29; 13:13; 1 Cor. 1:11; 3:3; 12:20; Gal 5:20; Phil 1:15; 1 Tim 6:4; Titus 3:9) 9x note: rendered strife and contentions in the NKJ
deceit δόλος (dolos); deceit, trickery, cunning, Str 1388; GK 1515; LN 88.154 (Matt 26:4; Mark 7:22; 14:1; John 1:47; Acts 13:10; Rom 1:29; 2 Cor 12:16; 1 Thess 2:3; 1 Peter 2:1, 22; 3:10; Rev 14:5) 12x
evil-mindedness, κακοήθεια (kakoētheia), Str 2550; GK 2799; TDNT 3.485; TDNTA 391; LN 88.113 (1x)
"they are whisperers", ψιθυριστής, (psithyristēs), Str 5588; GK 6031; LN 33.405 (1x)
Vs. 30
backbiters, κατάλαλος (katalalos), Str 2637; GK 2897; TDNT 4.3; TDNTA 495; LN 33.388 (1x)
"haters of God", θεοστυγής (theostygēs), Str 2319; GK 2539; LN 88.205 (1x)
violent, ὑβριστής (hybristēs), Str 5197; GK 5616; TDNT 8.295; TDNTA 1200; LN 33.392; 88.132 (2x)
proud, ὑπερήφανος (hyperēphanos), Str 5244; GK 5662; TDNT 8.525; TDNTA 1231; LN 88.214 (Luke 1:51; Rom. 1:30; 2 Tim 3:2; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5) 5xviolent, ὑβριστής (hybristēs), Str 5197; GK 5616; TDNT 8.295; TDNTA 1200; LN 33.392; 88.132 (2x)
boosters, ἀλαζών (alazōn), Str 213; GK 225; TDNT 1.226; TDNTA 36; LN 88.220 (Rom 1:30; 2 Tim 3:2) 2x
"inventors of evil things"
inventors: ἐφευρετής (epheuretēs), Str 2182; GK 2388; LN 30.69; (Rom. 1:30) 1x
"of evil things": κακός (kakos), GK 2805; Str 2556; TDNT 3.469; TDNTA 391; LN 20.18; 65.26; 72.22; 88.106 (40x)
"disobedient to parents",
disobedient: ἀπειθής (apeithēs), Str 545; GK 579; TDNT 6.10; TDNTA 818; LN 36.24 (Luke 1:17; Acts 26:19; Rom 1:30; 2 Tim 3:2; Titus 1:16, 3:3) 6x
"to parents": γονεύς (goneus), Str 1118; GK 1204; LN 10.18 (19x)
Vs. 31
"undiscerning", ἀσύνετος (asynetos), Str 801; GK 852; TDNT 7.888; TDNTA 1119; LN 32.49 (Matt 15:16; Mark 7:18; Rom 1:21, 31; 10:19) 5x
"untrustworthy", Str 802; GK 853; LN 34.45 (1x)
"unloving", ἄστοργος (astorgos), Str 794; GK 845; LN 25.42 (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3) 2x
"unforgiving", ἄσπονδος (aspondos), Str 786; GK 836; LN 40.7 (Rom 1:31; 2 Tim 3:3) 2x
"unmerciful", ἀνελεήμων (aneleēmōn), Str 415; GK 446; TDNT 2.487; TDNTA 222; LN 88.82 (1x)
