Romans 1:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 1:19
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Chapter Context
Romans 1 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, redemption, faith. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 1:19
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Analysis
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).
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.
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?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Romans 1:20
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 40:26, John 1:9