How does Romans 1:28 describe the consequences of rejecting God's knowledge? The Text Itself “Furthermore, just as they did not see fit to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what is improper.” — Romans 1:28 Key Phrases, Key Truths • “did not see fit” – a deliberate decision; they weighed God’s truth and deemed it unworthy. • “retain the knowledge of God” – refusing the light already given (cf. John 3:19-20). • “gave them over” – God’s judicial act of letting people pursue the path they insist on (cf. Psalm 81:12). • “a depraved mind” – a mind that no longer functions as designed, unable to discern good from evil (Isaiah 5:20). • “to do what is improper” – immoral behavior flows from distorted thinking (Matthew 15:19). The Downward Spiral Outlined in Romans 1 1. Suppressed truth (v.18). 2. Exchanged glory (v.23). 3. Exchanged truth for a lie (v.25). 4. Exchanged natural relations (v.26-27). 5. Finally, God gives them over to a depraved mind (v.28). ‑ Each step shows greater darkness and deeper bondage. What a “Depraved Mind” Looks Like Romans 1:29-31 lists twenty-one symptoms—“filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed…” and on it goes. Notice: • It covers both actions (murder, deceit) and attitudes (arrogance, disobedience to parents). • Social breakdown results: “without love, without mercy.” Cross-reference: Ephesians 4:17-19—“their understanding darkened… they have given themselves over to sensuality.” The same pattern emerges. Why Allowing This Consequence Is Just • Hosea 4:6—“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge… you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you.” • Galatians 6:7—“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, he will reap.” God’s judgment here is not lightning bolts but the removal of restraint; sin becomes its own punishment. Hope for Reversal • 2 Corinthians 10:5—“We demolish arguments… and take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” • Romans 12:2—“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” When God’s knowledge is welcomed, He replaces the depraved mind with a renewed one (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Takeaway Reject God’s knowledge, and the mind itself unravels; embrace His truth, and the mind is restored. |
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