Paul addressed the sin of the Gentiles in Romans 1. God had revealed Himself to them “by the things that are made” (v. 20). The creation serves as clear evidence of an eternally powerful Divine being, i.e. the Creator God. Skeptics who suggest God should reveal Himself in an unmistakable fashion, if He is indeed true, simply reject that which they claim would make them believers. They are like the Jews who continually request a sign, but ignore the ones already given them (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:22; John 6:30-31; Matthew 12:38). The evidence exists, and by that they are “without excuse” for their unbelief (v. 20).

The crux of the matter is their true desire. If they were of a spiritual mindset, and desired spiritual truth, they would accept the truth God has freely given them. But that is not their desire, no matter how insistent they are that it is. Instead of accepting the truth they “suppress the truth in unrighteousness” (v. 18). No matter how obvious the truth is, if one’s desire for unrighteousness is greater, the truth will be held down. They become those whom “the god of this age has blinded” (2 Corinthians 4:4). The truth they so adamantly claim to desire they exchange for the lie (v. 25).

The Gentiles of Romans 1 desired the lie that an idol is anything in the world (cf. 1 Corinthians 8:4-6). This pattern continues today. Idolatry is not an ancient concept, but an ever-present truth. Instead of serving the true God, men choose to be servants of sin (cf. Romans 6:16). This is folly, but God will continue to give men up to uncleanness if that is what they desire. What about you? Would you rather serve the true God, or the lie?

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