Romans 1:20 kjv

For 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:

Romans 1:20 nkjv

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,

Romans 1:20 niv

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities?his eternal power and divine nature?have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

Romans 1:20 esv

For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.

Romans 1:20 nlt

For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities ? his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Romans 1 verses

Romans 1 20 Meaning

Romans 1:20 asserts that from the very beginning of the created order, God's essential attributes—His limitless and unending power and His inherent divine nature—have been openly and clearly revealed. This revelation is perceivable and understood through observing the world He has made. The purpose of this clear manifestation is to render all humanity without any justifiable defense or excuse for their ignorance or rebellion against God.

Romans 1 20 Context

Romans 1:20 is situated within Paul's foundational argument in Romans concerning the universal need for salvation through faith in Christ. Preceding this verse, Paul declares the power of the gospel (Rom 1:16-17) and immediately pivots to the reality of God's wrath being revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people (Rom 1:18). Verse 19 states that "what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them." Verse 20 elaborates on how God has made Himself plain: through the creation. This revelation of God through the natural world is called "general revelation" and serves as the basis for human accountability. Paul then explains in subsequent verses (Rom 1:21-32) that despite this clear revelation, humanity has willfully suppressed the truth, leading to idolatry and pervasive moral degradation, culminating in God giving them over to their depraved desires.

Romans 1 20 Word analysis

• For since (τὰ γὰρ ta gar): A transitional phrase linking back to the previous verse (Rom 1:19), indicating a foundational reason or explanation. It introduces the rationale for humanity's inexcusability.

• the creation of the world (ἀπὸ κτίσεως κόσμου apo ktiseos kosmou): Refers to the very beginning, the initial act of bringing the universe into existence. It signifies the timeless and universal availability of this revelation, present for all humanity across all generations since the dawn of time. Ktisis means 'foundation' or 'creation'.

• God’s invisible qualities (τὰ ἀόρατα αὐτοῦ ta aorata autou): These are aspects of God's nature that cannot be perceived with physical eyes. These include His essence, character, and attributes that are non-physical, yet demonstrably present. Aorata means 'invisible'.

• his eternal power (ἥ τε ἀΐδιος αὐτοῦ δύναμις he te aidios autou dynamis): This refers to God's inherent, unending, and infinite capability and might, His boundless strength and sovereignty. It emphasizes His being the ultimate source and sustainer of all things. Aidios means 'eternal' or 'everlasting,' implying without beginning or end. Dynamis is 'power', 'force'.

• and divine nature (καὶ θειότης kai theiotes): This points to the very essence of God's being, His divine attributes, and His status as distinct from and superior to all creation. It refers to the Godhead as knowable through creation, such as His orderliness, beauty, and wisdom, without fully revealing His personal character or specific plan of salvation. Theiotes specifically conveys "divinity," "godhood," or "divine quality."

• have been clearly seen (καθοράται kathoratai): A strong verb indicating something observed with full understanding and clear perception, not just a casual glance. It's a continuous present passive, suggesting ongoing observation. The emphasis is on the clarity and obviousness of this revelation, making denial implausible.

• being understood (νοούμενα nooumena): From noieo, meaning to grasp with the mind, comprehend, or perceive intellectually. It implies a rational and mental recognition or comprehension of God's qualities through reflection on creation.

• from what has been made (τοῖς ποιήμασιν tois poiēmasin): Literally, "by the things made," referring to God's handiwork or creations—the entire physical universe. The world and everything in it serves as the medium for this clear revelation. Poiēmasin signifies 'a thing made', 'a product of work', 'handiwork'.

• so that people are without excuse (εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτοὺς ἀναπολογήτους eis to einai autous anapologētous): This is a purpose clause. The outcome of God's clear revelation through creation is that humanity is left with no justifiable defense, apology, or excuse for their godlessness. They cannot claim ignorance. Anapologetous means 'indefensible', 'inexcusable'.

• Words-group Analysis:

  • "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities...have been clearly seen": Establishes the historical depth and universal scope of God's revelation. This is not a recent phenomenon but one established from the very beginning, ensuring that all humanity across all ages has access to this fundamental knowledge.
  • "his eternal power and divine nature": These are the specific, foundational attributes of God that creation makes manifest. "Eternal power" speaks of His limitless might, His self-existence, and His ability to create and sustain. "Divine nature" refers to His distinct, holy, and transcendent being—that He is God, the Supreme Being. These are discernible characteristics of the Creator through His handiwork.
  • "being understood from what has been made": Highlights the mechanism of this revelation. The natural world acts as a clear mirror reflecting God's character. Understanding requires human engagement, not just passive viewing, implying an intuitive apprehension and mental comprehension.
  • "so that people are without excuse": This is the critical implication and purpose of the verse. Because God's attributes are so clearly displayed, humanity cannot plead ignorance when confronted by His wrath. Their condemnation stems not from lack of information but from willful suppression of known truth (as stated in Rom 1:18).

Romans 1 20 Bonus section

• General vs. Special Revelation: Rom 1:20 describes general revelation, knowledge of God available to all humanity through creation and conscience (Rom 2:15). This is distinct from special revelation, which is God's more specific self-disclosure through Scripture (His Word) and supremely through Jesus Christ (His Son). While general revelation renders people without excuse, it does not provide sufficient knowledge for salvation. Only special revelation, particularly the gospel, reveals the way of salvation from sin.
• The Nature of 'Theiotes' vs. 'Theotes': The Greek word used here, theiotes (divine nature), emphasizes the divine qualities or attributes perceivable in creation. This is subtly distinct from theotes (Col 2:9), which refers to the complete essence or the full 'Godhead' residing in Christ bodily. Rom 1:20 affirms that aspects of God's being are visible through creation, but not the entirety of the triune God, nor the path to reconciliation.
• Implications for Apologetics: This verse forms a fundamental basis for arguments from nature for God's existence. It suggests that disbelief in God is often not due to a lack of evidence but a deliberate suppression of clear evidence, a point relevant for defending the Christian faith.

Romans 1 20 Commentary

Romans 1:20 is a pivotal statement in Paul's argument, establishing the universal culpability of humanity before God. It succinctly asserts that God's very existence, His enduring might, and His inherent deity are undeniable truths. These foundational aspects of God are not hidden mysteries but have been manifestly evident since the dawn of creation, discernible by anyone through rational observation of the natural world. The vastness of space, the intricate complexity of life, the precise laws governing the universe—all declare a masterful, powerful, and eternal Creator. This 'general revelation' leaves no person with a valid excuse for failing to acknowledge and honor God. Therefore, humanity's subsequent slide into ungodliness and idolatry (as described in the following verses) is portrayed not as an act of ignorance, but as a willful suppression and rejection of readily available truth. This verse sets the stage for demonstrating humanity's desperate need for the unique saving revelation found only in the Gospel of Christ.

• Examples: The consistent cycles of seasons and tides point to a divine order and power. The immense size and observable physics of the cosmos hint at an eternal, powerful Creator. The intricate design of the human eye or a single living cell suggests intelligent design, not random chance. These observations preclude any genuine plea of ignorance regarding a powerful divine being.