I see two distinct divisions in the first chapter of Romans.
The first section of this chapter is introductory. The Introduction itself may also be divided into two parts:
1). A General Introductory Greeting (vv. 1-7) and,
2). A Specific\Personalized Greeting (vv. 8-15).
In the second section (vv. 16-32), Paul lays out the progressive and corporate moral slide of mankind. This forms the foundation for the discussion that follows in the second chapter.
Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus- a persecutor and blasphemer now "a servant of Jesus Christ". An enduring testimony of the sovereign grace of God. Note that first of all he states his status as a servant and an excellent place this is to commence. Thus, whatever else we may be, we do well to emulate Paul and rank our servitude to Christ first. If we are faithful servants of Christ, the effect will be seen by the fruit we bear as we serve God and one another. Other aspects of our life will also be in proper focus and balance.
CALLED TO BE AN APOSTLE>> not of men, neither by men, but by Jesus Christ. (Gal.1) When God calls a person to a specific task or function he also bestows the grace necessary to accomplish it in a useful manner. Thus Paul acknowledges elsewhere, "Unto me who am less than the least of all saints is this grace given , that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ." (Ep. 3:8)
SEPARATED UNTO THE GOSPEL OF GOD>> the word "separated" indicates his having been set apart for a specific purpose...a declaration of the gospel, that is, the good news of Christ. Paul's experience is a very graphical one. Jesus Christ turned him completely about so that, "he now preached the faith that he once tried to destroy."(Gal.1)
We note this verse is a parenthetical clause with the word "gospel" (in former clause) as it's object.
The gospel (good news) was looked forward to by old testament saints. They anticipated the fulfillment of the prophecies and hastened the coming of the Messiah.
Thus we read of the prophets in 1st Peter 1:l1, "...searching what, or what maner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. &ch."
CONCERNING>> the gospel "concerns" Jesus Christ. The prophets prophesied of his coming, his person, and the work he would do. Jesus Christ is the sum & substance of the gospel.
WHICH WAS MADE OF THE SEED OF DAVID ACCORDING TO THE FLESH>> the humanity of Jesus is in mind, and was of the lineage of David. This is the meaning of "according to the flesh". Thus, the promise to David that there would not fail to be of his seed, a decendant to sit upon his throne is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns.
AND DECLARED TO BE THE SON OF GOD WITH POWER>> interestingly, the word "declare" is [ Strongs #3724 horizo {hor-id'-zo}. to mark out the boundaries or limits (of any place or thing)] The resurrection of Christ from the dead defined and marked out Jesus of Nazareth as the Son of God. Though there were numerous other evidences to this fact, as his teaching, healing the sick, and the witness of John the Baptist, his resurrection is the primary and incontestable stamp of his diety.
When we connect verse 3& 4, we have a clear picture of the two natures of Christ in one Divine person...the Son of God. Pauls' mention of "the seed of David" is so important to keep in mind with this subject. As the "seed of David" and with reference to his humanity and mission, Jesus frequently refered to himself as the "Son of Man". On numerous other occasions Jesus refered to himself as "the Son of God", a title which refers to his Deity. Take notice of the fact that the Jews never objected to his using the title "Son of Man" or "Son of David". However in their opinion, his claim to being the Son of God made him guilty of a capital offense and worthy of death.
In this verse Paul acknowledges the source of his strength. Grace is the essential and necessary ingredient enabling a person to fulfill their calling. Education and refinement may have their place, but they are no substitute for grace.
FOR OBEDIENCE TO THE FAITH>> neither is there substitute for "obedience" [submission, compliance].
Samuel told disobedient King Saul, "Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.."
We are to be "obedient to the faith", that is, the body of revealed doctrine. Thus, "the secret things belong unto the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law."(Deut. 29:29)
AMONG ALL NATIONS>>Regardless of which nation, God is honored when his people are obedient. Civil goverment honors God when his laws are recognized and upheld. Obedience to God's Moral law is incumbant upon all and the social life in a nation is enhanced when the moral values of His law are taught and recognized.
A special blessing is recieved when and where the Gospel is believed and recieved. Disemination of the gospel began at Jerusalem, then Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the world.(Acts 1)
AMONG WHOM YE ALSO >> the saints at Rome are included in the fellowship of Jesus Christ, having been "called" of Jesus Christ.
THE CALLED>> a special term frequently used to distinguish God's people and the special relationship and vocation they have by virtue of God's purpose according to election.
GRACE AND PEACE>> a favorite greeting of Paul's. These words highlight the blessedness of our relationship with him. Note: we have "peace" with God because of his "Grace".
TO ALL THAT BE AT ROME>> not every citizen of Rome, but the saints, those which have been called into the fellowship of God's Son.
The blessings of "grace and peace" are to all of the called. None are excluded from it nor is it gained by the merit of any.
This verse ends the first part of his Introduction.
The next section of his introduction begins with this verse and continues through verse 15. This section is a part of his introductory greeting but is more specific as he states his particular desires and his thankfulness for the brethren at Rome.
FIRST I THANK MY GOD>> Paul sets a commendable example for us; he is "thankful". It is so easy to become unduly focused on what we want that we forget to be thankful. This is a great fault to avoid and gives the appearance that we are not content with what we presently have.
When we get into the second section of this chapter we find that the matter of "unthankfulness" surfaces (vv.21). Paul treats "unthankfulness" as a defective character problem which appears as a "marker" in man's practical digression from God.
THAT YOUR FAITH IS SPOKEN OF...>>a lively faith is seen in a persons' actions and behavior. James clarifies this: "Show me thy faith without thy works, and I'll shew thee my faith by my works. (Ja.2:18) Again he says, "Faith without works is dead."
The Roman brethren were zealous and forward in the profession of their faith. Like Paul, "They were not ashamed...ect" This causes us to question ourself. Do we have zeal\ enthusiasm for the gospel, for the truth, for fellowship with the saints which can be seen by others. Not that faithfulness is done to be seen, but it is like a light which cannot be hid. Do we fervently labor to share, promote and advance these blessings as did the Romans?
FOR GOD IS MY WITNESS>> no doubt we would be more careful in our speech and conduct if we kept in mind that God witnesses our every thought and deed.
WHOM I SERVE WITH MY SPIRIT>> like Paul, we need to keep focused on who we serve. Jesus says, "Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." Set our priorities rightly.
He serves God "with my spirit". The "spirit of man" is the rational aspect of the individual. We see this also in 1 Cor. 2:11, "For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him?"
Serving God "with our spirit" involves serving him intelligently and according to revealed truth. This does not mean that "feelings" are not included, but "feelings" are not to take the lead or have the priority in our service. Our "feelings" are likely to lead us astray.
Serving God with our spirit does not rule out our physical bodies. Indeed, our body is to be a useful "instrument" in serving him. While not neglecting bodily needs or abusing the body, we are to bring it under subjection and into an intelligent service to God.
Paul's prayers are seasoned with thankfulness and requests for the Roman brethren.
Among his requests is a visit to Rome with God's will. Paul had a desire to go to Rome as he did also to other areas, including Spain. God is mindful of our desires even though they may not always fit into His will or time-table.
Some suppose that a paticular desire or lack of one, is a direct mandate from God of his approval or disapproval. For example, a person may become dissatisfied with the area he lives and want to relocate. He visits another area and likes the climate, the community and facilities. He then feels a desire to move there and interprets this as God's will for him. It is likely, in two or three years this person will again become dissatisfied and conclude that it is now God's will for him to move on. In my opinion this is too low a view of God's will and his ordinary method of operation.
Paul's view was, if the opportunity was not coupled with his desire he prayed that it might be in the future. The lack of opportunity did not necessarily mean that the desire was at variance with God's will. In Paul's immediate case, his desire was in harmony with God's will (and his calling), but the timing was off. Paul eventually went to Rome, but it was at a later date and under circumstances unforeseen by him. However, when he did go (in bonds), his witness was far more effective than it would have been otherwise. (Read ending chapter of Acts)
He enlarges on the scope of his desire to go to Rome, his purpose in going, and what he hoped would be accomplished by it.
Fellowship in the gospel is a mutual thing; teacher and student are edified in the process. Paul would be fulfilling his calling, dispensing the gospel, and in turn would be edified by witnessing the effects of teaching grace in the lives of the Romans.
OFTENTIMES I PURPOSED TO COME UNTO YOU>> Paul had already endevored on several occasions to go to Rome. Providential circumstances did not permit it at the time. He didn't interpret his purpose as being contrary to God's will for he repeatedly attempted to go. Everything he desired and had in mind to accomplish on such a trip was in harmony with his calling and service to God.
In Ro.15:21-22 Paul identifies exactly what the circumstances were that hindered him from making the trip to Rome. In verse 21 he quotes from Is.52:15 and applies it to his situation:
"But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you."
Preaching to other Gentiles was the circumstance which hindered Paul from going to Rome as he desired.
I'm inclined to think that the timing of the trip was out of sync with God's plan for Paul, and therefore
WAS LET HITHERTO>> God hindered his plans providentially. God allows us to make plans and decisions about where to live, what we do, who we marry, what type of employment we prefer, ect. So long as our decisions are not immoral or in some way contrary to his revealed will, we have great latitude in our choices.
Though God, on occasion, providentially hinders, we should not automatically assume that hinderances are from him. Thus we read in Gal.5:7: "Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?"
In this instance, the hinderance arose from false teachers.
In 1Th.2:18 we read that Satan hindered Paul from a return visit to the Thessalonians.
Therefore, we should not read more into "hinderances" than is proper. We recognize them for what they are... hinderances. Attempting to "read between the lines" is at best confusing, and at worse dangerous.
A few words on personal decision making.
It is widely held that God has made all the decisions of life for us, and now we must figure out what He has decided for us. Many might argue that this is not true in their case, however, it is observed that this concept of "dicision making" is the method they employ in their decision making process. This can be observed by the language people commonly use: "I'm trying to discover God's will for my life.", "I feel led...", "God wants me to...", "I feel God is calling me...", "I want God's perfect will...", "I've recieved lots of confirmation...", "I have an inward peace about it...". All of this supposes that spiritual maturity involves a "sixth sense" enabling one to tune in to God's will for them.
God has made his will for us very plain. We don't have to guess or wonder about it... it is found in the scriptures. All the above pre-supposes he has mapped out some blueprint which we must discover, before we can make a decision; none of which is biblical. The decision making process is not a matter of searching for what God has decided; it is a process of growing in our knowledge of biblical truth, and earnest prayer to God for wisdom to make sound decisions. Thus:
1).God has not pre-decided whom you are to marry; he has given instruction on the type of mate to choose and how to be a faithful and godly husband or wife.
2). God has not pre-decided the specific secular employment you should follow; he has given instruction on the type of employee/employer you ought to be.
3). God has not pre-decided in which community or neighborhood you are to live; he has given instruction on the kind of neighbor you ought to be.
I AM DEBTOR>> under obligation (in posession of something that is not his). In verse one, Paul stated his calling as an apostle (separated unto the gospel). He posessed the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was a "dispenser" of the gospel, it was not intrinsically his. He was under obligation to preach it (share it with others). He says in another place, "Woe unto me if I preach not the gospel."
TO GREEKS..BARBARIANS..WISE AND UNWISE>> he desired to share the gospel with all categories of people. The word "barbarian" was used by the Greeks of any foreigner ignorant of the Greek language.(TDNT)
SO>> connects this verse as an explanation of his former statement, "For I am debtor...ect".
I AM READY TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO YOU AT ROME ALSO>> though he was ready the occasion and circumstance had not yet become convenient to do so. (see vv.13)
This verse begins the second section of this chapter.
NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL..>>his not going to Rome wasn't due to any backwardness or hesitancy to share the gospel message, but (as already shown) a lack or opportunity due to his travels elsewhere.
IT (the gospel) IS THE POWER OF GOD>> the word "power" is from Strongs # 1411 dunamis {doo'-nam-is}. The English words "dynamic, dynamite" are derived from it and ought to help us understand the proper purpose and effect the gospel produces in believers. Literally, the gospel is" dynamite" in the life of a believer; it produces a noticable, dramatic change. When or where this does not occur it is because of unbelief.
The word "dynamic" relates to energy or physical force in motion. Dynamic is opposed to "static"--forces in a state of equilibrium, at rest, inactivity. From this we discern that the gospel produces an effect in the believer which corresponds to "activity and motion". Spiritual apathy, lethargy, or sluggishness are inconsistant with gospel belief.
UNTO SALVATION>> as noted above the gospel produces motion. The motion is in a specified direction.. unto (toward) salvation. There is a sense in which salvation is 'past tense', 'present tense', and 'future tense'. We live in the 'present tense'. (2nd Cor. 1:10 contains all three tenses.) Salvation is a progressive thing not to be fully realized until our complete transformation in the resurrection. Then (only then), will Romans 8:29 be fulfilled.
"For whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the first born among many brethren."
At present we bear his image only in a limited degree.
The gospel produces motion in the believer, motion which (by degrees of spiritual growth) brings him to a closer proximity with God in fellowship, in his understanding and comprehension of divine realities, in his perspective of the present state and the conflicts within it, and in his behavior while in the present state. This is referred to by some as "Gospel Salvation". These things are "a present salvation" in a timely sense of our understanding and benefiting from them. However, this present or timely salvation is not, or does not become static (without movement). There is no point or place in the 'present tense' where we can say, "Let it suffice, I have arrived." The culmination will be the glorified state.
Although the phrase "eternal salvation" is not specifically used here, I certainly think it is implied. For, salvation (whether past tense or present tense) is a progression or movement toward a designed goal to be obtained fully in the glorified state. Thus (in my opinion), Time Salvation or Gospel Salvation is essentially a present (though limited) participation in Eternal Salvation. Thus we interpret Jesus' words in John 17:3,
"And this is eternal life, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent."
And thus we understand the words of the hymn:
Blest be the tie that binds,
Our hearts in Christian love.
The fellowship of kindred minds,
Is like to that above.
TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH>> misapplied by many. The gospel is not the power of God to the unbeliever as is commonly taught. Nor is it God's power (as a means or instrument) in regeneration (giving life to a dead sinner). It was not designed or intended for that purpose. It is designed to be a means\instrument which moves the believing sinner unto repentance, conversion, and spiritual groweth in the knowledge and understanding of spiritual things. To this end it is dynamite.
TO THE JEW FIRST AND ALSO TO THE GREEK>> The gospel began with the Jews then later carried to the Gentiles. (see Acts 1:8)
FOR THEREIN IS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD REVEALED>> the gospel is a clear revelation of God's righteousness. In the gospel the character, attributes, and government of God is openly made known and seen to be righteous.
FROM FAITH TO FAITH>> some understand this to mean, from God's faith to the faith (as a fruit of the Spirit) in man. Other take it to mean, from the faith of the gospel Preacher to the faith of those receiving the message.
Note: Faith may function both as the origin\source of some grace or virtue, or as the receptor of the same.
THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH>>quote from Hab.2:4 The point of emphasis seems to be that the just man would live (spiritually) upon the gospel, which is of faith. The gospel is food and drink to the soul. We are strengthened and recieve nourishment to grow by feeding upon the gospel.
FOR THE WRATH OF GOD IS REVEALED FROM HEAVEN>>this may intend one branch of the gospel concerning God's wrath, the punishment of the wicked, ect.
However I am more inclined to look at this as a separate revelation of God distinct from the gospel. To me this seems to balance out with the former verse and what we observe among the heathen religions. Not all nations have had the gospel, yet in all religions there contains the concept of an angered, wrathful God which must be appeased. For this reason it appears that God has revealed his wrath (apart from the gospel) in such a way that man is intuitively aware of it. To a significant degree, Arminianism takes this approach theologically. Essentially all works systems are merely human attempts to propitiate an angry God.
AGAINST ALL UNGODLINESS OF MEN WHO HOLD THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS>>The context which follows indicates that God has been moved to "reveal his wrath" against wickedness where ever it be found, especially where a revelation of truth is ignored or willfully set aside.
Note: The phrase "hold the truth" is of special significance in what follows. It will aid our understanding to recognize various ways by which God has revealed truth:
1st). God has given the revelation of Nature.(seen in his work of Creation)
2nd). His revelation in the Law.
3rd). The revelation of Jesus Christ in the Gospel.
Men are accountable to God for their response to the truth as what follows illustrates.
The first and most notable instance of the revealed wrath of God came in the days of Noah. He says, "I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth:" (Gen. 6:7)
Many other instances subsequent to this event are examples of the revealed wrath of God against iniquity and unrighteousness.
BECAUSE THAT WHICH MAY BE KNOW OF GOD IS MANIFEST IN THEM>> which explains why God's wrath is revealed (from former verse). A revelation of God makes manifest particular truths about God, his nature, and his will.
FOR GOD HATH SHEWED IT UNTO THEM.>> which is the reason that it may be known.
"The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever that we may do them." (Deut. 29:29)
In this verse it becomes clear which relevation of truth is under consideration. It is the revelation in Nature (Creation).
FOR THE INVISIBLE THINGS OF HIM FROM THE CREATION OF THE WORLD ARE CLEARLY SEEN>> it initially appears to be a contradiction that "invisible things of God are clearly seen". The sense is, "by observing God's creative work we can arrive at an understanding of certain attributes of God."
BEING UNDERSTOOD BY THE THINGS THAT ARE MADE>> man being a rational creature has the capacity to make observations about his environment and form logical, factual conclusions based on the evidence. This is the basis of Science. Therefore, by observation of the world we live in, the various creatures that inhabit it, the interdependent ecosystems, we gather evidence (data) and form conclusions from it. From the evidence we learn several things about the Creator.
EVEN HIS ETERNAL POWER AND GODHEAD>> the evidence we collect from the revelation of Nature is overwhelming for the existance of an eternal, almighty God. The evidence is available to all.
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handwork....There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard." (Ps.19:1,3)
THEY ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE>> which indicates an overwhelming preponderance of evidence witnessing the same truth, namely, the existance and power of God.
In my opinion what follows describes the moral decline of man corporately. Adam ushered in total depravity as a "state of existance", his posterity manifested their aversion to God (as what follows show) by willfully rejecting the knowledge of him. This commences an irrational moral plunge downward into the depths of licentiousness, lawlessness, and rebellion. Though the context treats man corporately, a parallel course is traveled by an individual when unrestrained in his pride, self-will, and enmity.
Some take this section to be that of a rebellious child of God in a backslide. Although there may be a parallel, in my opinion it is a very limited one. The case being considered is far more extreme than simple backsliding. One of the most obvious reasons that the context does not refer to a child of God is seen from the fact that the characters under consideration pursue their course with unabated pleasure. Also, it seems clear (at least to me) that the truth being rejected in not Gospel Truth, but rather the truth revealed in God's creative work.
BECAUSE THAT WHEN THEY KNEW GOD>>that is, they had access to the revelation and knew God to the degree Natural Revelation permits. As already noted, his existance and power is clearly manifested by his work of Creation. Men are not born atheists, they choose to be when they reject the truth he has revealed in Creation.
THEY GLORIFIED HIM NOT AS GOD>>A notable point in his discussion. When a person is confronted with truth he has only two options; he can acknowledge it or reject it. The choice is a pivotal point in the persons' life. We glorify God by acknowledging truth. He is the "God of Truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." (Duet. 32:4)
These chose not to acknowledge the truth and thereby glorify God with that knowledge.
When a person rejects truth, his choice has set his course. Truth is "light" and the only course left to this character is "darkness". One error easily leads to another as what follows shows.
NEITHER WERE THANKFUL>>This is the 2nd occurrance (v.8) in this chapter of this word. We note that "unthankfulness" is among the first errors to appear in a moral decline. Thankfulness ought to be a priority in our prayers and verbally expressed. Thankfulness is not merely being glad or happy that you posess this or that. Where there is genuine thankfulness there is a verbal expression of it, for the person feels to be favored in some undeserved way. Unthankfulness is a "negative" indicating the lack of virtue in the character of the person. It is odius wherever found.
BUT BECAME VAIN IN THEIR IMAGINATIONS>>rather than a "mind full" of the revealed truth of God, their minds are empty\ void of profitable knowledge. Thus their thoughts and imaginations (the workings of the mind) lack the "material" to function as it ought toward a right purpose and a useful constructive end.
AND THEIR FOOLISH HEART WAS DARKENED>> One sin leads to another and precipitates in a further decline in moral health. So it is here. Here we observe the effect that faulty thinking and thoughts have upon the heart. Darkness is the absence of light. God is Light. Therefore, though man (corporately or individually) is not in total moral darkness at this point, nevertheless his state is worsened (as the word darkened indicates).
PROFESSING THEMSELVES TO BE WISE THEY BECAME FOOLS>> having rejected the knowledge of God available to them, which knowledge, magnifies His Person, Power, and Wisdom, they esteem themselves wise. This is a progression from the former verse.
The Gr. word for 'wise', from Strongs #4680 sophos {sof-os'}-- from which our English word "sophisticated" is derived. Self-exaltation is dangerous.
"Whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted." (Matt. 23:12)
CHANGED THE GLORY OF THE UNCORRUPTIBLE GOD>> man cannot (in an absolute sense) change God's glory in any way; God is above man and immutable. The thought here is that of a mental exchange of ideas (subjective). Since they rejected true knowledge of God, all that remained for them was a perverted, distorted caricature of Him and His Attributes.
INTO AN IMAGE MADE LIKE TO CORRUPTIBLE MAN>> indicates a reversal of proper thinking on their part. Rejecting the truth that man was made the image of God (which acknowledges Creatorship), they subvert it to God "made like to corruptible man".
The word image is from Strongs #1504 eikon {i-kone'} denotes a figure or likeness. Is used here of a graven or carved image. Thus, idols, images are physical representations of a mental concept or idea.
The use of "uncorruptible and corruptible" is significant and sharply contrasts God and man.
Uncorruptible is--not liable to corruption or decay, imperishable.
Corruptible--perishing, defiled, deprave.
AND TO BIRDS, FOURFOOTED BEASTS, AND CREEPING THINGS>> all of which shows the source of the religions of Animism and Pantheism. Though God created all things He is separate and distinct from all things.
WHEREFORE GOD ALSO GAVE THEM UP>> as they had "gave up" the true knowledge of God for a distorted caricature of Him, so God now gives them up.
TO UNCLEANNESS>>Uncleanness is used in a moral sense of "impure, lustful, profligate living."
The case has progressed from impure, faulty, foolish, and vain way of thinking, to the outward extension manifested by conduct and behavior.
Note: faulty doctrinal or moral principles eventually become manifest by deviant behavior.
Thus we interpret John 8:31,32:
"If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."
THROUGH THE LUSTS OF THEIR OWN HEARTS>> a perverted desire, craving, and seeking for what is forbidden.
The "heart" is used in a variation of ways in scripture, sometimes of the mind, other of the affections, appetites and passions. Generally is used of the seat and source of life and the activities of it.
Note: from this we see the importance and emphasis in the command:
"Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life." Pr.4:23
TO DISHONOUR THEIR OWN BODIES BETWEEN THEMSELVES>> continues with the description of downward moral progression. First, rejection of truth. Secondly, vain & unprofitable thoughts and imaginations. Thirdly, perverted conduct and behavior. Now fourth, shameful dishonour shown toward their own body by using it for an 'unnatural' --abnormal way; in ways it is not designed to function. Specifically, lesbianism and homosexuality as vv. 26-27 show.
This verse gives a concise summary of the previous seven verses.
WHO CHANGED THE TRUTH OF GOD INTO A LIE>> that is, the "truth of God" evident in his work of creation (sometimes refered to a natural revelation, and distinguished from the gospel revelation). The word 'lie' is from Strongs #5579 pseudos {psyoo'-dos} and denotes an intentional falsehood, a presenting something as other than it actually is.
AND WORSHIPPED>> to reverence or give honor to.
AND SERVED THE CREATURE>> to render religious service. To serve as a slave.
"Creature" denotes the things that are made. This could be described as the origin of Materialism.
MORE THAN THE CREATOR WHO IS BLESSED FOR EVER. AMEN>> The Creator is separate and distinct from his creatures. Regardless of the error men fall into in their thinking and conduct, they cannot make God less than he is. God is bessed for ever, and we are thinking rightly when we concur. With Paul let us say "amen"... so be it.
These last seven verses continue as an outline detailing the progressive moral slide of corporate man.
FOR THIS CAUSE>> the rejection of truth and subsequent perversion.
GOD GAVE THEM UP UNTO VILE AFFECTIONS>> same as vv.24 as they had "gave up" the true knowledge of God for a distorted caricature of Him, so God now gives them to their disgraceful passions.
[Unto passions of dishonor. The degradation of sex is what Paul here notes as one of the results of heathenism (the loss of God in the life of man.) They passed by the Creator. (A.T. Robertson)]
FOR EVEN THEIR WOMEN DID CHANGE THE NATURAL USE INTO THAT AGAINST NATURE>> unnatural - abnormal sexual acts are under consideration. Reproduction within the marriage covenant is the normal use and design of male and female reproductive organs (they are not "sex organs").
Sexual acts "against nature" are those involving lesbianism, homosexuality, sodomy, masturbation, bestiality. Such shameful practices abuse and degrade the body by using the reproductive organs in a way and for a purpose they were not designed.
AND LIKEWISE THE MEN>> aberrant behavior is not confined to the female gender.
LEAVING THE NATURAL USE OF THE WOMAN>> a turning from normal use of reproductive organs to abnormal use; homosexuality, sodomy under consideration.
BURNED IN THEIR LUST ONE TOWARD ANOTHER>>literally to "set on fire", become inflamed with lust\passion.
MEN WITH MEN>> against that which is natural according to design.
WORKING THAT WHICH IS UNSEEMLY>> shameful acts; sodomy; acts of gross moral deformity.
AND RECEIVING IN THEMSELVES THAT RECOMPENCE>> they will receive that "which is their due". A "recompense" is the same as 'wages for service rendered'. This is a concrete statement on the role of AIDS and STD (sexually transmitted disease) in the moral struggle.
WHICH WAS MEET>> "Imperfect active for obligation still on them coming down from the past. This debt will be paid in full..." and, "Nature will attend to that in their own bodies and souls." AT Robertson, NTWP
AND EVEN AS THEY DID NOT LIKE TO RETAIN GOD IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE>> they are God haters, repulsed by the knowledge of God. All of which is used as a shield to protect themselves from accountability and persevere in their depravity.
GOD GAVE THEM OVER TO A REPROBATE MIND>> this is the third time in the context we read "God gave them up". (vv.24,26,28) It signifies abandonment of God, the worst case possible.
The number three is frequently associated with Divine things. E.W. Bullinger, in his work Number in Scripture states,
"Three denotes divine perfection. All things that are specially complete are stamped with this number three."
TO DO THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT CONVENIENT>> A.T. Robertson makes a descriptive illustration of the case. "Like an old abandoned building, the home of bats and snakes, left to do those things which are not fitting."
Paul now begins bringing in a flood of charges (I number 23 counts) which would overwhelm even the most callous jurist. The charges are fully warranted and greatly advance his case.
BEING FILLED>>A graphic description. to render full, fill to the brim; brimming over. As a container which can hold no more.
This verse and what follows presents a solid case against the notion that these are merely backslidden children of God. These are the wicked reprobate viewed "corporately".
WITH ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS>> deeds violating law, justice, and equity.
FORNICATION>> (in a broad sense) illicit sexual intercourse of all forms including, adultery,fornication, incest, homosexuality, lesbianism, intercourse with animals etc.
WICKEDNESS>>Depravity in general; iniquity, malice, evil purposes and desires.
COVETOUSNESS>>Greediness; greedy desire to have more; avarice. Eagerness to have more, esp. what belongs to others
MALICIOUSNESS>> malice; naughtiness; ill-will, desire to injure.
FULL OF ENVY>> Indicates a person whose actions are prompted by envy; jealousy; ill-will.
MURDER>> slaughter; to slay. (distinguished from self-defense and 'wartime killing' in defense of one's country.)
DEBATE>> contention, strife, wrangling.
DECEIT>> subtilty, craft, guile.
MALIGNITY>> depravity of heart and life; bad character; malicious craftiness.
WHISPERERS>> secret slanderer, detractor, gosip.
BACKBITERS>> a defamer, evil speaker. To use the tongue as an instrument to destroy others.
HATERS OF GOD>> exceptionally impious and wicked; hateful to God.
DESPITEFUL>> an insolent man, one who uplifted with pride, either heaps insulting language upon others or does them some shameful act of wrong.
PROUD>> showing one's self above others, with an over estimate of one's means or merits. Despising others or even treating them with contempt; haughty.
BOASTERS>> an empty pretender; braggart.
INVENTORS OF EVIL THINGS>> a contriver of harmful, destructive things.
DISOBEDIENT TO PARENTS>> impersuasible, not compliant, disobedient, contumacious. Wilful disregard for parental authority.
WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING>> unintelligent, without understanding, stupid. Though they are wise to do evil, to do good they have no knowledge.
COVENANT BREAKERS>> untrustworthy, faithless. Will not honor or abide within an agreement or arrangement.
Note: when people divorce they are covenant breakers. The same can be said of those who don't honor business contracts. [men "false to their engagements". ATR]
WITHOUT NATURAL AFFECTION>> used only two times (2 Ti.3:3); without love of kindred; unsociable, unloving, inhuman. A picture of the effects of sin; lacking the normal love which is the binding\bonding element in the structure of family, relationships, and society. Seen today of mothers lacking maternal instinctive love and aborting their babies; of fathers forsaking their families.
IMPLACABLE>> indicates "without a treaty or covenant". Of persons who will not, or cannot be persuaded to end hostilities; of those who won't pause in, or respite from quarreling, conflict, or trouble.
UNMERCIFUL>> without compassion; to lack pity for one afflicted or seeking aid.
In this final verse, two things are shown to greatly aggrivate the case:
1). willful disregard for Divine judgment
2). personal enjoyment in seeing the evil being done and\or doing it themselves.
There is no great difference; if a person enjoys seeing an evil act being committed, he is no better than he that enjoys doing it.
Note: where does that place those who find pleasure in watching movies filled with violence, nudity, filthy language, and distorted sexual acts and perversions.
WHO KNOWING THE JUDGMENT OF GOD>> God has not been silent on moral issues. Instance the divine judgment of the Flood, Sodom and Gomorrha, and countless other examples of his judgment against ungodliness. God's moral law has been clearly stated.
THEY WHICH COMMIT SUCH THINGS ARE WORTHY OF DEATH>> God has already shown "his mind" on such things (as noted above). When properly implemented, Punishment of evil doers acts as a deterant. Even if it didn't, justice demands it.
NOT ONLY DO THE SAME, BUT HAVE PLEASURE IN THEM THAT DO THEM>> a terrible fault, and one which does not go unnoticed by God, when those responsible for maintaining law and order, punishing evil doers, and rewarding those doing good, miserably fail in discharging thier duties. Worse yet, when the same are found using their positions to encourage and promote evil.
[It is a tragedy of American city goverment (and I add state\federal goverment) that so many of the officials are proven to be hand in glove with the underworld of law-breakers. A.T. Robertson]
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