Romans 1:24

The same subject: heathen sin judicially aggravated

24. Wherefore God also gave them up The inevitable connexion of idolatry with debased morality is stated here. Nothing but the knowledge of the Holy One, Eternal and Almighty, can ever really teach and enforce human purity; even though conscience (up to its light) always takes the part of purity. Manifold experience shews that mere social civilization and mental culture can never really banish even the grossest lusts. Nothing but the knowledge of God as He is can reveal to man both his fall and his greatness, his sin and his sacred duty.

God also gave them up So Psalms 81:11-12; Acts 7:42. On the other hand man "gives himself over;" Ephesians 4:19. Experience as well as Revelation says that the most terrible, and just, penalty of sin is the hardening of the sinning heart. It is a "law;" though in using that word we must here specially remember that, as with physical so with moral laws, "their ultimate reason is God." The "law" of judicial hardening is His personalwill, and takes place along with His personaldispleasure.

through the lusts Lit. in the lusts: a pregnant phrase; q. d. "He gave them up to live invile desires."

to dishonour The dignity and sanctity of the body is a main and peculiar truth of Revelation.

between themselves Another reading gives "among them;" but the evidence is not decisive, and general reasons support the E. V.