Romans 1:32
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Romans 1:32 (KJV)
Context
Romans 1:32 concludes Paul’s description of humanity’s downward spiral into sin that begins in Romans 1:18-31. In the preceding verses, Paul explains how people have rejected the knowledge of God, embraced idolatry, and pursued various sinful lifestyles, including sexual impurity and other unrighteous actions. He declares that God’s wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness.
Meaning
The verse begins by acknowledging that those who commit such sinful acts are aware of God’s judgment. The Greek word translated “knowing” (ἐπιγνόντες) indicates a full, conscious recognition of God’s decree. This awareness reflects an inherent moral conscience that God has placed within each individual, making the standards of right and wrong evident to all.
Romans 1:32 states that those who practice these sins are “worthy of death.” The phrase points not only to physical death but also to spiritual death—separation from God. Sin creates a barrier between humanity and the Creator, a condition that can be remedied only through faith in Jesus Christ.
A troubling aspect highlighted by the verse is the willful participation and pleasure in the sins of others. The text says that people not only engage in sinful behavior but also take pleasure in, or approve of, those who practice the same acts. This approval of sin in others is presented as an even deeper level of moral corruption. This mutual endorsement deepens corruption and promotes further immoral practices.
Biblical connections
This verse connects to Romans 2:14-15, which states that Gentiles have the law written on their hearts, their consciences bearing witness. This connection shows that the knowledge of God’s judgment is not limited to those who received the written law; it is woven into human conscience. The passage demonstrates the insufficiency of natural revelation to save, showing the need for divine revelation and the impossibility of being justified by works of seeming righteousness.
Application
The passage therefore underscores the urgent need for repentance and turning away from sin. Believers are warned against justifying or celebrating sinful behavior and are called to recognize the serious consequences of both personal sin and the approval of others’ sin. True reconciliation with God is found through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, which restores the broken relationship caused by sin.
Reflection
The verse serves as a warning about the danger of not only committing sin but also approving of it in others. It underscores the reality of God’s righteous judgment and the sobering truth that people are without excuse because they have knowledge of God’s judgment yet persist in sin and even celebrate it in others.
