Bible Question: In Romans 1:18-25, What KIND of Truth if God revealing to Man? Also why does a sinner need to honour God AS God if his heart is to be in the right attitude and spirit to receive the gospel of salvation? |
Bible Answer: Hello zion, I may be late in responding to this, but I have some insight into this chapter of Romans. During my exigetical classes in college, I spent 16 weeks on this chapter. Allow me to share with you some of my research. First off, the "truth" that was revealed then supressed as spoken of in verse 18 is the truth about God and his wrath. In the first chapter, beginning with verse 16 and on, you have two things being revealed to mankind. The first is in verse 17, and it is the "Righteousness of God". The second is in verse 18, and it is the "Wrath of God". These two verses touch on the subject of revelation. I'm not sure if you are aware of this, so I'll clarify. There are two types of revelation: Special and General. Special revelation is where God reveals himself through special or supernatural means. The handwriting on the wall in Daniel, Moses and the Burning Bush, and Joseph's dreams in Genesis. These are all examples of Special Revelation. It is this Special Revelation that is spoken of in Verse 17. The Righteousness of God is revealed through Faith to those who are faithful, meaning that it is done through special revelation. Now for General Revelation, This is God's revelation in Nature and through natural means. In Verse 18, the Wrath of God is revealed to all mankind. It is evident not only within them, but through creation. This is God's presence being seen in nature. Now, Romans 1:18-32 goes into detail about general revelation. The Law that was given to Moses bridged Special and General Revelation. The Law, given through Special means, was also given to prove that mankind has no excuse for his actions. It is our standard to know when we are living contrary to God's will. All of this together is what Paul is referring to in this first part. It is the Truth about God, his wrath against sin, his righteous nature, and his existance. It was this truth that mankind corrupted, ignored, turned into lies, and dishonored. For example, what is the common thought about Christians among those who call themselves "freethinkers"? That Christians are fools to believe in such stupidity. Correct? This supports what Paul is talking about. Now, on to your next question. Why does a sinner need to Honor God as God? Jesus touches on this in the sermon on the mount. He states that Man cannot serve two masters. He cannot serve both God and money. This is what Paul is saying in Romans. Basically, that if you do not honor God as God, then you won't take God seriously and you won't truly be saved. It will only be an outward action. Paul is trying to make it clear that salvation begins with placing God first, honoring him as LORD, and submitting to his authority. Paul reflected that same attitude throughout his life. Almost every one of his letters begins with him referring to himself as a slave or servant of God. That is the mindset that is needed for salvation, that God is master and only he is master. Idolotry is more than wrongful worship. It is anything that gets between you and God. Sin is more than wrong doing. Sin is also not doing what God desires. I hope this helps. Jesus Loves You! Jesusman |