Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 1:18-23

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Romans 1:18-23

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Romans 1:18-23 as a declaration of God's righteous wrath against human ungodliness and unrighteousness, revealing the universal need for the Gospel. This passage underscores the doctrine of total depravity, highlighting humanity's suppression of truth and idolatry. Within the redemptive-historical framework, this text demonstrates the futility of human attempts to reach God apart from His sovereign grace. It prepares us to see the necessity of God's covenant of grace, which finds its fulfillment in Christ, who alone can reconcile us to God.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word 'ἀσέβεια' (asebeia) translated as 'ungodliness' emphasizes a fundamental irreverence towards God, which aligns with the Reformed understanding of total depravity. The term 'ἀδικία' (adikia), meaning 'unrighteousness,' supports the view that human sin affects all areas of life. This tradition underscores the importance of these terms to affirm humanity's need for divine intervention, consistent with God's sovereign decree.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from Arminianism, which may interpret human suppression of truth as partial rather than total. In contrast, we maintain that sin has corrupted every aspect of human nature, necessitating God's sovereign grace for salvation. Additionally, unlike liberal theological traditions that might downplay God's wrath, we affirm it as a vital aspect of His holiness and justice, integral to the gospel message.

Pastoral Application

As Reformed pastors, we should emphasize the gravity of sin and the futility of human efforts to achieve righteousness apart from Christ. We are called to declare the hope of the Gospel, where God's wrath is satisfied in Christ, urging our congregations to rely not on their strength but on God's sovereign grace. Highlighting the reality of idolatry in contemporary life, we must call the church to repentance and faith in Christ, who alone is the true image of God. Our preaching should reassure believers of the unshakeable foundation of God's decree in their salvation, leading them to greater worship and gratitude.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 44:9-20; Psalm 19:1-4; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:1-3; Romans 3:10-18

Doctrinal Connections: Total depravity; Sovereign grace; Covenant of grace; God's decree; Effectual calling; Idolatry as a result of the fall