Romans 1:19
Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεὸς
God
G2316
θεὸς
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
5 of 14
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
φανερόν
manifest
G5318
φανερόν
manifest
Strong's:
G5318
Word #:
6 of 14
shining, i.e., apparent (literally or figuratively); neuter (as adverb) publicly, externally
αὐτοῖς
it unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς
it unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 14
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
11 of 14
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
θεὸς
God
G2316
θεὸς
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
12 of 14
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Cross References
Romans 1:20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:Isaiah 40:26Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.John 1:9That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
Historical Context
Ancient paganism was not mere ignorance but idolatry—the exchange of truth for lies (v. 25). Philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and Stoics acknowledged a supreme being or logos (reason) governing the cosmos, yet worship devolved into polytheism and immorality. Paul's argument in Romans 1 echoes Wisdom of Solomon 13-14 (a Second Temple Jewish text), which condemned Gentile idolatry as culpable suppression of natural knowledge of God. Paul universalizes this indictment, including Jews in chapter 2.
Questions for Reflection
- What does 'what may be known of God' (τὸ γνωστὸν τοῦ θεοῦ) through nature and conscience include and exclude?
- How should natural revelation inform evangelism, apologetics, and cultural engagement with non-Christians?
- If all people have some knowledge of God, why do they still need the gospel, and why is missions urgent?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Paul explains why suppression of truth is culpable: dioti to gnōston tou theou phaneron estin en autois (διότι τὸ γνωστὸν τοῦ θεοῦ φανερόν ἐστιν ἐν αὐτοῖς, 'because what may be known of God is manifest in them'). To gnōston (τὸ γνωστόν, what is knowable) indicates accessible, understandable knowledge. This is not exhaustive knowledge of God's character or salvific plan but sufficient revelation to render humanity accountable. Phaneron estin (φανερόν ἐστιν, is manifest/evident) means it is clear, visible, unmistakable.
En autois (ἐν αὐτοῖς, in them) could mean 'among them' or 'within them'—likely both. Humanity has internal moral awareness (conscience, Romans 2:14-15) and external natural revelation (v. 20). The reason: ho gar theos autois ephanerōsen (ὁ γὰρ θεὸς αὐτοῖς ἐφανέρωσεν, 'for God has shown it to them'). God is the active revealer; humans are passive recipients. This is general revelation—knowledge of God available to all through creation and conscience, distinct from special revelation (Scripture, Christ). General revelation makes humans culpable but does not save; only the gospel saves (v. 16).