Audio commentary on this verse

Note 1 at Rom. 1:21: As Paul explained in Romans 1:18-20 (see note 2 at Rom. 1:18, p. 659), every person who has ever lived has had God reveal Himself to them, but this verse is explaining that revelation is not always received. Each individual has the freedom of choice.

In verses 21-23, Paul describes different characteristics of those who reject God's revelation. These could also be descriptive of progressive steps that one takes away from the true revelation of God.

The first step in rejecting God is not to glorify Him as the supreme, all knowing, unquestionable God. This is what happened with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. They questioned God's intent behind His command (Gen. 3:1-6). They ceased to magnify and honor (see ref. b at this verse) God as they once did. Submission to God as supreme is always humbling and therefore "self" rebels. This is very prevalent today.

Secondly, they were not thankful. This is always a sign that self is exalting itself above God. A selfless person can be content with very little. A self-centered person cannot be satisfied. Thankfulness is a sign of humility and cultivating a life of thankfulness will help keep "self" in its proper place.

After these first two steps have been taken, then the individual's mind is freed to begin imagining foolish, wicked, and idolatrous thoughts (see ref. c at this verse). This leads to a hardened heart ("foolish heart was darkened" -see note 10 at Mk. 6:52, p. 238) and being reprobate (see note 6 at v. 28, below).