Sermons on Romans 1:18-20

Romans 1:18-20 Interpretation:

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) offers a detailed and nuanced interpretation, distinguishing between "general" and "special" revelation. The sermon highlights that Romans 1:18-20 refers not to the knowledge of salvation, but to a universal, innate awareness of God's existence, power, and divinity, accessible to all through creation and conscience. The preacher critiques translations that overstate the passage, clarifying that Paul is not saying all that can be known about God is revealed, but rather that enough is revealed to render humanity inexcusable for godlessness. The sermon also explores the Greek term for "godhead," arguing it should be rendered "divinity" or "deity," not "godhead," to avoid confusion with the fullness of God's being. The preacher uses anthropological evidence (universal sense of God in all cultures) and conscience as internal witnesses, and creation, providence, and history as external witnesses, to reinforce Paul's point.

Divine Authority: The Clarity and Reliability of Scripture (Ligonier Ministries) interprets Romans 1:18-20 as evidence that God's revelation in nature is so clear and manifest that it leaves humanity "without excuse." The sermon uniquely frames this as a psychological and existential conflict: humans are not merely ignorant of God, but actively suppress and flee from the truth because it confronts and judges them. The preacher uses the analogy of a "muted testimony" or "non-verbal evidence" in nature, and contrasts this with the spoken and written word of God, both of which are resisted by fallen humanity. The sermon also critiques the popular bumper sticker "God said it; I believe it; that settles it," arguing that God's word is settled regardless of human belief, and that the real issue is whether God has spoken at all.

Exploring Reformed Theology: Key Distinctions and Insights (Ligonier Ministries) references Romans 1 in the context of Calvin's doctrine of the "sensus divinitatis" (sense of the divine) and "cognitio Dei insita" (implanted knowledge of God). The panel discusses how Calvin, following Augustine, believed that all humans have an inescapable awareness of God, both internally (as image-bearers) and externally (through creation). The sermon distinguishes between "mediate" (through nature) and "immediate" (innate) revelation, and discusses the difference between objective proof and subjective persuasion, noting that the Holy Spirit enables people to "acquiesce" to the evidence already present in creation and conscience.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) offers a detailed and layered interpretation of Romans 1:18-20, emphasizing the present-tense nature of God's wrath ("is revealed") as an ongoing reality, not merely a future event. Begg draws a sharp distinction between "ungodliness" (irreverence toward God, breaking the first table of the law) and "unrighteousness" (immorality toward others, breaking the second table), noting that the Greek text uses two distinct words, with impiety leading to immorality. He uses the analogy of "Plan A" (trying to get rid of God) and "Plan B" (living as if God does not exist), highlighting the willful suppression of truth. Begg also distinguishes between general revelation (creation and conscience) and special revelation (Christ and Scripture), arguing that while general revelation is sufficient to render humanity "without excuse," it is not sufficient for salvation. He uses the intricacy of creation and human physiology as evidence of God's self-disclosure, and notes that suppression of this truth is a deliberate act rooted in a desire for autonomy.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) interprets Romans 1:18-20 through the lens of Psalm 19, focusing on the paradox of creation's "speech"—a nonverbal, universal testimony to God's glory. Begg highlights the poetic devices in both Psalm 19 and Romans 1, noting that the "cry" of creation transcends language and geography. He draws a direct line from the psalmist's imagery to Paul's argument, suggesting that the suppression of truth is not an intellectual failure but a moral one, and that the consequences of this suppression are societal as well as personal. The sermon uses vivid metaphors, such as the sun as a bridegroom or a strong man, to illustrate the inescapable evidence of God's power and nature.

Finding Meaning Amid Life's Uncertainties and Challenges (Alistair Begg) brings a unique existential and psychological angle to Romans 1:18-20, connecting the suppression of truth to the universal human experience of the "why" question. Begg argues that even those who deny God cannot escape the sense of moral oughtness and the search for meaning, because God has "stamped man in his image" and made knowledge of Himself "plain." The sermon uses the analogy of a classroom and the sense of fairness to illustrate the inescapable moral awareness that Paul describes as evidence of God's revelation.

God's Justice, Mercy, and the Afterlife Explained (David Guzik) interprets Romans 1:18-20 as teaching that God has made His truth accessible to every person through creation and conscience, even to those who have never heard the gospel or the name of Jesus. Guzik uniquely applies this to the fate of those who have never heard the gospel, arguing that God will judge them based on their response to the revelation they have received, not on what they have not received. He uses the example of Melchizedek as a biblical "outlier" who came to faith without direct revelation, suggesting that God can reach people in unexpected ways. This interpretation stands out for its focus on the practical implications for the unevangelized and its emphasis on the fairness of God's judgment in light of general revelation.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) offers a detailed and layered interpretation of Romans 1:18-20, emphasizing the present, ongoing nature of God's wrath as a "handing over" (Greek: paradid?mi) rather than mere noninterference. Begg highlights the progression from impiety to idolatry to immorality, arguing that the suppression of truth leads to cultural and moral degeneration. He uses the analogy of a medical scan to illustrate humanity's reluctance to face the truth about itself, and the "frog-in-the-kettle" metaphor to describe gradual moral decline. Begg also stresses that the evidence of God's wrath is not just future judgment but the current state of society, which is itself a manifestation of divine judgment.

Embracing Life's Uncertainties: A Call to Trust God (Alistair Begg) interprets Romans 1:18-20 as explaining why people, even those who deny God, still ask "why" questions about meaning and justice. Begg uniquely connects the suppression of truth to the universal human sense of moral "oughtness" and the persistent search for meaning, arguing that these are evidence of God's image and revelation in humanity. He uses the analogy of a teacher assigning arbitrary grades to illustrate the innate human sense of fairness, which he ties back to the knowledge of God that people suppress.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) interprets Romans 1:18-20 in direct connection with Psalm 19, arguing that the "voice" of creation is a universal, inescapable testimony to God's existence and attributes. Begg uniquely emphasizes that the suppression of this truth leads not only to intellectual error but to the "moral disintegration of human society." He draws a sharp distinction between biblical theism and pantheistic or New Age views, warning that confusing creation with the Creator leads to cultural collapse. He also stresses that general revelation is sufficient to leave people "without excuse" but insufficient for salvation, which requires special revelation in Christ.

God's Pursuit: The Question of Our Location (Alistair Begg) interprets Romans 1:18-20 as a commentary on humanity's tendency to "run from God" and suppress the truth, connecting it to the Genesis 3 narrative of Adam hiding from God. Begg uses the metaphor of "hide and seek" to illustrate the futility of trying to escape God's revelation, and he highlights the irrationality of thinking one can hide from God, linking this to the way sin distorts human reasoning.

Revealing God's Glory Amidst Chaos and Division (Desiring God) interprets Romans 1:18-20 as teaching that all of creation is constantly and overwhelmingly declaring God's glory, and that the problem is not a lack of revelation but human blindness and suppression of the truth. The sermon uses the metaphors of a tapestry and a mural to illustrate how God's glory is being revealed even in the midst of apparent chaos and evil, and that the full picture will only be seen in the end.

Choosing Light: The Call to Spiritual Awakening (SermonIndex.net) offers a unique analogy by comparing the process of becoming spiritually callous to the physical development of calluses on a guitarist’s fingers, and then to the loss of pain sensation in leprosy. The sermon interprets Romans 1:18-20 as describing a progressive, willful hardening of the heart through repeated rejection of God’s self-revelation in creation, leading to a loss of spiritual sensitivity and ultimately to self-destruction. The preacher emphasizes that ignorance of God is not innocent but is a result of actively ignoring overwhelming evidence, and that the downward spiral into darkness is a self-chosen path, not a passive state. The analogy of the callous and leprosy is used to illustrate how repeated resistance to God’s truth leads to a dangerous insensitivity to sin and to God’s voice.

Contemplating God's Glory in Creation and Accountability (SermonIndex.net) provides a notable linguistic insight by exploring the Hebrew word for glory, "kabod," and the Greek "doxa," explaining how the latter means something that so arrests your attention that it causes you to think deeply. The sermon interprets Romans 1:18-20 as Paul’s assertion that the visible world is designed to provoke contemplation of God’s wisdom and power, and that suppressing this truth is a willful act of intellectual pride. The preacher uses the analogy of seeing a beautiful painting and immediately inferring the skill of the artist, arguing that denying God’s hand in creation is as absurd as claiming a painting made itself. The sermon also uniquely applies the passage to the context of modern evolutionary theory, suggesting that elaborate naturalistic explanations are themselves a form of truth suppression.

Understanding Sin and Embracing Redemption in Christ (SermonIndex.net) offers a fresh perspective by focusing on the relational and psychological dynamics of suppression. The preacher uses the analogy of a doctor diagnosing a patient who resists negative information, paralleling it to humanity’s resistance to the diagnosis of sin and God’s wrath in Romans 1:18-20. The sermon also highlights the sequence of “exchanges” in the passage (truth for a lie, natural for unnatural), arguing that confusion about God leads to confusion about humanity, identity, and ultimately sexuality. This chain of exchanges is presented as a theological and existential unraveling that begins with the suppression of truth about God revealed in creation.

God as Creator: Faith, Truth, and Redemption (SermonIndex.net) provides a detailed, almost scientific meditation on the complexity and design of creation, using the analogy of the human eye, the metamorphosis of a butterfly, and the self-repairing nature of living things to illustrate the “plainness” of God’s revelation in creation. The preacher interprets Romans 1:18-20 as a direct indictment of the prideful refusal to acknowledge the obvious evidence of God’s power and divinity, arguing that the suppression of this truth is a willful, suicidal blindness. The sermon also draws a unique connection between the miraculous nature of creation and the necessity of faith, emphasizing that science cannot account for the supernatural act of creation and that the real issue is not evidence but faith.

Romans 1:18-20 Theological Themes:

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) introduces the theme of the "inexcusable" nature of sin, not merely because of its character but because of the universal availability of knowledge about God through creation and conscience. The sermon draws a sharp line between general revelation (which reveals God's power and divinity but not salvation) and special revelation (which is necessary for salvation), emphasizing that general revelation is sufficient to condemn but not to save. The preacher also explores the idea that the wrath of God is justified because humanity actively suppresses the truth, not because they lack access to it.

Divine Authority: The Clarity and Reliability of Scripture (Ligonier Ministries) adds a psychological and existential dimension to the theological theme: the suppression of truth is not just intellectual but volitional and emotional. The sermon argues that humans ignore and suppress God's revelation because it challenges their autonomy and exposes their sin, making the issue one of authority and sovereignty rather than mere knowledge.

Exploring Reformed Theology: Key Distinctions and Insights (Ligonier Ministries) brings in the Reformed theological concept of the "sensus divinitatis" and the distinction between proof and persuasion. The sermon highlights that while the evidence for God is objectively overwhelming, only the internal testimony of the Holy Spirit brings about true persuasion and submission to that evidence, thus connecting Romans 1 to the doctrines of total depravity and effectual calling.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) introduces the theme that idolatry is not merely the worship of physical idols but any attempt to replace God with something else—be it money, sex, achievement, or notoriety. Begg adds the facet that idolatry is fundamentally an attempt to "get rid of God," and when that fails, to live as if He does not exist. He also explores the idea that the collapse of Western civilization is directly tied to the suppression of God's revelation, and that the only answer to the present revelation of God's wrath is the righteousness revealed in the gospel.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) presents the theme that the suppression of truth is a moral, not merely intellectual, act, and that the resulting societal disintegration is a direct consequence of this suppression. Begg adds the angle that pantheistic and New Age spiritualities are modern forms of idolatry, confusing creation with the Creator, and that biblical theology insists on a clear distinction between the two.

Finding Meaning Amid Life's Uncertainties and Challenges (Alistair Begg) uniquely applies Romans 1:18-20 to the existential crisis of modern people, arguing that the persistent "why" questions about meaning, fairness, and justice are themselves evidence of God's revelation. Begg adds that the suppression of this truth leads to the deification of nature and the dethronement of God, a reversal that leaves people spiritually adrift.

God's Justice, Mercy, and the Afterlife Explained (David Guzik) introduces the distinct theological theme that God's judgment is based on the revelation a person has received, not on what they have not received. This theme is applied to the fate of the unevangelized and children or those without rational capacity, emphasizing God's fairness and mercy in judgment.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) presents the unique theme that the current state of societal and cultural degeneration is itself a manifestation of God's wrath, not merely a precursor to future judgment. Begg also adds the facet that the "handing over" is an active intensification of sinful desires, not just passive withdrawal, and that the root problem is the exchange of truth for a lie, not merely immoral behavior.

Embracing Life's Uncertainties: A Call to Trust God (Alistair Begg) adds the theme that the universal human sense of justice, meaning, and the "why" question is itself evidence of suppressed knowledge of God, and that even those who deny God cannot escape this internal witness.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) introduces the theme that the suppression of general revelation leads to societal and cultural collapse, and that pantheistic confusion of creation with Creator is a key factor in this decline. He also emphasizes the utter dependence of creation on God and the insufficiency of general revelation for salvation.

God's Pursuit: The Question of Our Location (Alistair Begg) highlights the theme that God's pursuit of humanity is an act of grace, and that the suppression of truth is not just intellectual but deeply personal and relational, leading to alienation and dislocation at every level.

Revealing God's Glory Amidst Chaos and Division (Desiring God) presents the theme that God's glory is being revealed even in the midst of human failure and chaos, and that the ultimate purpose of history is to "stop every mouth" and magnify the freedom and beauty of God's grace. The sermon also adds the facet that the apparent imbalance between God-glorifying and non-glorifying acts will be resolved in the final revelation of God's purposes.

Choosing Light: The Call to Spiritual Awakening (SermonIndex.net) introduces the theme of “callousness” as a spiritual pathology, arguing that the suppression of truth in Romans 1:18-20 is not merely intellectual but results in a progressive loss of moral and spiritual sensitivity. The sermon adds the facet that this hardening is self-inflicted and likened to a disease (leprosy), where the loss of pain (conscience) is itself a judgment.

Contemplating God's Glory in Creation and Accountability (SermonIndex.net) presents the theme that God’s revelation in creation is not just evidence but an invitation to contemplation and worship, and that the suppression of this truth is a form of intellectual idolatry. The preacher adds the angle that accountability before God is proportional to the degree of revelation received, and that deliberate rejection after knowledge is more severe than ignorance.

Understanding Sin and Embracing Redemption in Christ (SermonIndex.net) develops the theme that the root problem is not ignorance but willful disobedience to known truth, and that the wrath of God is revealed not only in future judgment but in the present “handing over” of people to the consequences of their choices. The sermon uniquely connects the suppression of truth to a breakdown in personal and societal identity, especially in the area of sexuality, making the theological point that theological error leads to anthropological and ethical error.

God as Creator: Faith, Truth, and Redemption (SermonIndex.net) emphasizes the theme that faith, not scientific observation, is the proper response to God’s revelation in creation. The preacher adds the facet that the suppression of truth is not a lack of evidence but a lack of faith, and that the miraculous nature of creation is meant to provoke awe, humility, and worship, not skepticism.

Romans 1:18-20 Historical and Contextual Insights:

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) provides extensive historical and cultural context, noting that Paul is addressing both Jews and Gentiles, and that the knowledge of God through creation is universal, as evidenced by anthropological studies of even the most "primitive" tribes. The sermon references the debates between 20th-century theologians Karl Barth and Emil Brunner on natural theology, and situates Paul's argument within the broader context of ancient and modern discussions about the possibility and limits of knowing God apart from special revelation. The preacher also discusses the translation history and nuances of key Greek terms, and references the universal presence of conscience and moral awareness in all human societies.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) provides historical context by referencing the Roman world as the immediate backdrop for Paul's letter, but asserts that the "manifold chaos" described in Romans 1 is "always everywhere"—a universal human condition. Begg also references the cultural shift in the West toward sentimentalizing God and neutralizing death, noting that these are modern expressions of the same ancient rebellion.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) offers cultural context by explaining the ancient Jewish understanding of the sun's movement and the poetic metaphors used in Psalm 19, which Paul likely had in mind. Begg also situates Paul's argument within the broader Greco-Roman world, referencing the collapse of empires as historical examples of the consequences of suppressing divine revelation.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) provides historical context by noting that Paul's message in Romans 1 was written to first-century Rome, yet its immediate application remains relevant in the twenty-first century. Begg also references the sexual revolution of the 1960s as a modern example of the progression from impiety to idolatry to immorality, paralleling the cultural decline described by Paul.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) offers historical insight by referencing the collapse of ancient empires such as Rome and Greece, arguing that their downfall was due to the suppression of the truth about God as described in Romans 1. He also situates the rise of pantheism and New Age spirituality in contemporary Western culture as a modern manifestation of the same suppression of truth.

Contemplating God's Glory in Creation and Accountability (SermonIndex.net) provides historical context by referencing the unique position of Israel in receiving special revelation and the severe consequences for their rejection of it, as compared to the nations who only had natural revelation. The sermon also discusses the cultural practice of idolatry in the ancient world, explaining how the making of graven images was a universal but ultimately futile attempt to represent the divine, and how Israel’s exchange of God’s glory for idols was especially egregious given their knowledge.

Understanding Sin and Embracing Redemption in Christ (SermonIndex.net) offers contextual insight into the Roman world, noting that the original audience of Romans would have recognized the perversions, materialism, and arrogance described in the passage as characteristic of their own society. The preacher also references the Greco-Roman practice of idolatry and the prevalence of sexual immorality, situating Paul’s argument within the lived reality of first-century Rome.

Romans 1:18-20 Cross-References in the Bible:

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) cross-references several biblical passages to support and expand on Romans 1:18-20. The preacher cites Psalm 147 and Acts 14 (Paul's speech at Lystra) as parallel affirmations of God's revelation in creation and providence. The Book of Job (chapters 37-38) is mentioned as another scriptural meditation on the majesty and power of God in nature. The sermon also references Genesis 1-11 as the key to understanding world history in light of God's providence, and 1 Corinthians 1-2 to clarify that the knowledge of salvation comes only through the Spirit, not through general revelation. The preacher further notes that Romans 1:32 and later verses in the chapter elaborate on the role of conscience and the knowledge of God's judgment.

Divine Authority: The Clarity and Reliability of Scripture (Ligonier Ministries) references Psalm 19 ("The heavens declare the glory of God") as a parallel to Romans 1:18-20, reinforcing the idea of non-verbal, universal revelation. The sermon also alludes to Jesus' statements about the authority and truthfulness of Scripture, and to the story of the rich young ruler (from the Gospels) as an illustration of the deeper demands of God's law.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) references Psalm 19 ("The heavens declare the glory of God...") to support the idea of general revelation, and alludes to Genesis (creation and conscience) as the sources of God's self-disclosure. He also mentions Romans 3 ("There is no fear of God before their eyes") to show the culmination of humanity's rebellion, and hints at later passages in Romans 1 ("God gave them up") as the outworking of divine judgment.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) explicitly connects Psalm 19 to Romans 1:18-20, arguing that Paul's language about God's invisible attributes being "clearly seen" is a direct echo of the psalmist's description of creation's testimony. Begg also references Isaiah 40 ("Lift up your eyes on high and see...") as another biblical affirmation of God's self-revelation in creation, and Acts 17 (Paul's address in Athens) to illustrate the universality of the quest for meaning and the biblical insistence on a Creator distinct from creation.

Finding Meaning Amid Life's Uncertainties and Challenges (Alistair Begg) uses Romans 1:18-20 to explain the universal human sense of moral right and wrong, and references Ecclesiastes to illustrate the futility of life "under the sun" apart from God. The sermon also alludes to Hebrews 9:27 ("It is appointed unto man once to die, and after this comes judgment") to underscore the inevitability of divine accountability.

God's Justice, Mercy, and the Afterlife Explained (David Guzik) references Acts (Paul's Mars Hill sermon) to support the idea that God has determined the times and places where people live, and that everyone receives the message of creation and conscience. He also mentions Melchizedek as a biblical example of someone who came to faith without direct revelation, and 1 Corinthians regarding the sanctification of children of believers.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) cross-references Genesis 3 and 4 to explain the origin of sin and the breakdown of relationships, and Genesis 3:15 as the first hint of redemption. He also references Romans 5:18-19 to connect Adam's disobedience with humanity's predicament, and 1 Thessalonians 4 and Ephesians to apply Paul's warnings about immorality and the need for sanctification among believers. Additionally, he cites James to illustrate the progression from desire to sin, and 1 Corinthians 15:22 ("As in Adam all die, so in Christ will all be made alive") to highlight the contrast between judgment and salvation.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) cross-references Psalm 19 as the background for Paul's argument in Romans 1:18-20, emphasizing the universal witness of creation. He also references Paul's speech in Acts 17 (Mars Hill) to illustrate the proclamation of God as Creator to a pagan audience, and Genesis 1 to affirm the doctrine of creation ex nihilo.

God's Pursuit: The Question of Our Location (Alistair Begg) connects Romans 1:18-20 to Genesis 3, using the narrative of Adam hiding from God as an illustration of humanity's suppression of truth and alienation from God.

Choosing Light: The Call to Spiritual Awakening (SermonIndex.net) references several passages to expand on Romans 1:18-20: Psalm 19 (the heavens declare the glory of God), John 3 (men love darkness rather than light), Ephesians 4 (the hardening of the Gentile heart), 2 Peter 2 (false teachers in the church), 1 John 1 (walking in the light), 2 Thessalonians 1 (judgment on those who do not know God), Hebrews 3 (the deceitfulness of sin), and Galatians 6 (sowing and reaping). Each passage is used to reinforce the idea that God’s revelation is clear, that rejection is willful, and that the consequences are both present and future.

Contemplating God's Glory in Creation and Accountability (SermonIndex.net) cross-references Psalm 19 (creation’s testimony), Isaiah 6 (the earth is full of God’s glory), Psalm 8 (the dignity of man), Jeremiah 2 (Israel’s exchange of glory), Proverbs 8-9 (wisdom’s universal call), Hebrews 10 (judgment for willful sin), Luke’s parable of the talents (judgment for rejecting the king), and other passages about accountability and judgment. These references are used to show the consistency of the biblical witness regarding God’s self-revelation and human responsibility.

Understanding Sin and Embracing Redemption in Christ (SermonIndex.net) references Psalm 19 (creation’s witness), Luke 11 (Jesus’ diagnosis of human evil), Genesis 1 (creation), Romans 2 (conscience), 1 Corinthians 5 (handing over to Satan), Galatians 6 (restoring the fallen), and Psalm 7 (God’s anger). Each is used to support the argument that God’s revelation is both external (creation) and internal (conscience), and that judgment is both present (handing over) and future (final wrath).

God as Creator: Faith, Truth, and Redemption (SermonIndex.net) references Genesis 1:1 (creation), Isaiah 40 and 44 (God’s self-revelation as creator), Psalm 19 (creation’s speech), Job (God’s questioning of Job about creation), Hebrews 11:3 (creation by faith), and 2 Peter (inspiration of scripture). These passages are used to reinforce the idea that God’s creative power is the foundation for faith, worship, and accountability.

Romans 1:18-20 Christian References outside the Bible:

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) explicitly references John Calvin and his "Institutes of the Christian Religion," highlighting Calvin's emphasis on the universal sense of God in all humanity and the distinction between general and special revelation. The sermon also mentions contemporary theologians Karl Barth and Emil Brunner, summarizing their debate over the possibility of natural theology and the extent of knowledge available to fallen humanity through creation. The preacher cites anthropologists and researchers who have documented the universal presence of belief in a supreme being among all human cultures, using this as evidence for Paul's claim in Romans 1.

Exploring Reformed Theology: Key Distinctions and Insights (Ligonier Ministries) references Calvin and Augustine in discussing the "sensus divinitatis" and the inescapable awareness of God in all people. The panel also mentions Charles Hodge and J.I. Packer in relation to prevenient grace and the distinctions between Reformed and Arminian theology, and quotes John Murray on the difference between preaching and teaching. The discussion is rich with references to classic Reformed theologians and their interpretations of Romans 1 and related doctrines.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) explicitly references C.S. Lewis, quoting from "The Problem of Pain" on the necessity of a sense of sin for understanding God's wrath, and Francis Schaeffer's "Death in the City," which predicted the consequences of disregarding God's authority in Western culture. Begg uses these sources to reinforce the biblical argument that the suppression of truth leads to societal decay and spiritual blindness.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) cites Martin Luther's humility before the Psalms, quoting his admission that no one can fully understand even a single psalm, and uses this to encourage ongoing study and humility before Scripture. Begg also references C.S. Lewis's high praise for Psalm 19 as "the greatest poem in the Psalter and one of the greatest lyrics in the world," and Horatius Bonar's "God's Way of Peace" to distinguish between God's word and human words.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) explicitly references Antony Flew, a philosopher who moved from atheism to theism, to argue that reason and self-consciousness point to a "supra-physical" source, supporting the idea that God's existence is evident in creation. Begg also references C.S. Lewis's conversion from atheism to theism as a parallel. He quotes Melanie Phillips, an agnostic but observant Jew, for her analysis of cultural decline and the loss of objective truth, and uses her observations to illustrate the consequences of suppressing the truth about God. Additionally, he references Shakespeare's "Hamlet" to illustrate the sense of brokenness in the world, and The Beatles' song "Getting Better" to comment on cultural optimism.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) quotes Martin Luther on the distinction between God's word and man's word, emphasizing the enduring power of divine revelation. He also references Michael Behe's "Darwin's Black Box" (though not by name, but as "the lawyer who wrote the book") to illustrate the impact of personal testimony and the insufficiency of purely logical arguments for faith.

Understanding Sin and Embracing Redemption in Christ (SermonIndex.net) explicitly references G.K. Chesterton, quoting his famous line: “When people stop believing in God, they don’t believe in nothing, they believe in anything,” to illustrate the consequences of suppressing the truth about God. The sermon also mentions Abraham Lincoln’s reflection on the stars as evidence of God, using it to support the argument that creation naturally points to the Creator. Additionally, the preacher cites Stuart Briscoe’s commentary on Romans, summarizing Briscoe’s insight: “Confusion about deity leads to confusion about humanity, confusion about humanity leads to confusion about identity, confusion about identity gives rise to confusion about sexuality,” to reinforce the chain of consequences that begins with suppressing the truth about God.

Romans 1:18-20 Illustrations from Secular Sources:

Divine Authority: The Clarity and Reliability of Scripture (Ligonier Ministries) uses the example of modern college students' responses to the Bible and the Ten Commandments, gathered through street interviews, to illustrate contemporary attitudes toward Scripture and divine authority. The sermon also references the popular bumper sticker "God said it; I believe it; that settles it" as a cultural artifact, critiquing its theological implications. Additionally, the preacher mentions the Salem witch trials as a humorous aside in a student's comment about the commandments, and uses the Monopoly game phrase "Go directly to heaven. Don’t pass go; don’t collect your $200" to illustrate the rich young ruler's misunderstanding of the law.

God's Revelation: The Call to Humility and Salvation (MLJTrust) draws on anthropological research into the beliefs of pygmies in central Africa, Australian aborigines, and Native American tribes to demonstrate the universality of belief in a supreme being, using this as a secular confirmation of Paul's argument in Romans 1. The preacher also references Julian Huxley, a prominent evolutionary biologist, as an example of the alternative, secular explanation for the origin of life and the universe, contrasting it with the biblical view of creation as evidence of God's power and divinity.

Turning from Idols to Embrace True Salvation (Alistair Begg) uses the example of astronaut Jeff Williams, who, after seeing the earth from space, rejects the idea of a random universe, as an illustration of the undeniability of God's revelation in creation. Begg also references Aldous Huxley's candid admission that atheism was attractive because it allowed for personal freedom, both politically and sexually, highlighting the moral motivations behind the suppression of truth.

The Majesty of Creation and the Power of God's Word (Alistair Begg) recounts attending a Paul Simon concert, noting Simon's search for meaning and his recommendation of a scientist's book as an attempt to answer life's big questions. Begg uses this as an example of the futility of seeking ultimate answers apart from God's revelation. He also mentions the story of a lawyer who was converted after attending a poorly delivered Vacation Bible School talk, emphasizing that it was the speaker's evident belief, not eloquence, that God used to draw him.

Finding Meaning Amid Life's Uncertainties and Challenges (Alistair Begg) references the film "Dead Poets Society" and its popularization of "carpe diem," as well as the British poet Robert Herrick's "Gather ye rosebuds while ye may," and the movie "Wayne's World" with its catchphrase "party on, dude," to illustrate the various secular responses to life's meaninglessness. Begg also mentions Lucretius's description of life as a "fortuitous concourse of atoms" and the prevalence of New Age and multicultural spiritualities in modern bookstores, contrasting these with the biblical worldview. He uses the analogy of a classroom and the sense of fairness to illustrate the inescapable moral awareness that Paul describes as evidence of God's revelation.

The Power of the Gospel: Hope and Redemption (Alistair Begg) uses several detailed secular illustrations: he references Melanie Phillips's book "The World Turned Upside Down" to discuss the loss of objectivity in society; Antony Flew's philosophical journey from atheism to theism as an example of rational inquiry leading to belief in God; Shakespeare's "Hamlet" ("The time is out of joint") to illustrate the sense of brokenness in the world; the Beatles' song "Getting Better" to comment on cultural optimism; and the 1960s sexual revolution as a historical example of moral decline following the rejection of God. He also mentions the movie "The Bridges of Madison County" and an article in The Times about infidelity to illustrate contemporary attitudes toward marriage and sexuality, and the "I've fallen and I can't get up" commercial as a metaphor for human helplessness.

Embracing Life's Uncertainties: A Call to Trust God (Alistair Begg) draws on several secular sources: he references the film "Dead Poets Society" and the Latin phrase "carpe diem" from Horace to illustrate the philosophy of seizing the day in the face of life's uncertainties; the British poet Robert Herrick's "Gather ye rosebuds while ye may" to underscore the fleeting nature of life; and the movie "Wayne's World" ("party on, dude") as a banal expression of the same philosophy. He also uses the analogy of a teacher assigning arbitrary grades to illustrate the innate human sense of fairness, and references the unpredictability of sports (Notre Dame vs. USC football game) and historical events (Lucretius's "fortuitous concourse of atoms") to highlight the randomness perceived in a godless worldview.

Understanding Creation: The Creator's Power and Purpose (Alistair Begg) references Paul Simon's concert and his endorsement of a scientist's book as an example of the search for meaning outside of biblical revelation, expressing sadness at Simon's reliance on secular explanations for life's purpose. He also mentions the prevalence of pantheistic and New Age ideas in Western culture, referencing "Mother Nature" as a common secular expression of this worldview.

Contemplating God's Glory in Creation and Accountability (SermonIndex.net) uses the analogy of viewing a beautiful painting and immediately inferring the existence and skill of an artist, arguing that denying God’s hand in creation is as absurd as claiming a painting made itself. The sermon also references the National Geographic map of the universe, with its four boxes showing the scale from the solar system to the known universe, to evoke a sense of awe at the vastness of creation and the smallness of humanity. The preacher further uses the example of a “money spider” on his desk to illustrate God’s attention to detail, and the uniqueness of snowflakes to highlight the intricacy of creation. These illustrations are used to make the point that the evidence for God’s power and wisdom is both vast and minute, and that suppressing this truth is irrational.

God as Creator: Faith, Truth, and Redemption (SermonIndex.net) employs several detailed secular analogies: the complexity of the human eye (referencing Darwin’s own doubts), the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, the self-repairing nature of living organisms (e.g., a dog’s broken leg healing without intervention), and the design of machines compared to living beings (e.g., a machine that can self-repair, self-replicate, and process diverse inputs). The preacher also describes his experience snorkeling in the Caribbean, being overwhelmed by the diversity and beauty of marine life, and contrasts this with the blandness of the ocean’s surface, likening it to the superficiality of scientific materialism. These illustrations are used to argue that the evidence for design and purpose in creation is overwhelming and that denying it is a willful act of blindness.